Serine proteases of Gram-negative bacteria: structure,mechanisms of secretion,biological activity

Current data on the characterization of bacterial serine proteases, forming the family of proteins with specific structural and functional features and secreted by type V (autotransport), are presented. The expression of many of these proteases is believed to be linked with pathogenicity of Gram negative bacteria, which necessitates their further study with a view to obtain more profound concepts. These enzymes have been shown to facilitate the bacterial colonization of the skin and mucous membranes. They are believed to be linked with the resistance of microorganisms to lysosomal proteolysis by phagocytes and their ensuing dissemination in the course of the infectious process. Serine proteases split coagulating factor V and enhance the permeability of blood vessels, thus inducing the hemorrhagic syndrome. The detailed study of serine proteases is closely linked with the prospects of the development of protease inhibiting preparations aimed at the suppression of the pathogenetic activity of proteases by their blocking or by affecting the mechanisms of their secretion.