Proteases Archives

Are bacteria that secrete protein degradation enzymes responsible for preterm births?

Written by

Dr Laura Sycuro and her team research the vaginal microbiome, with a particular focus on bacteria which could be responsible for preterm birth

Preterm births occur before the 37th week of gestation and are the leading cause of infant deaths around the world. Although there are many factors contributing to preterm labour, including multiple gestation and diseases such as diabetes, approximately 40% of cases are associated with bacterial infection of the uterus. Dr Laura Sycuro and her team at the University of Calgary, […]

Could a serpin antibody help to treat type 1 diabetes?

Written by

Research from Dr Jan Czyzyk and his team at the University of Minnesota, USA, explores the balance between proteases and serpins, and how their activity can in turn affect the inflammation and tissue regeneration of pancreatic islet cells. Their findings show that antibodies can be used to change this serpin–protease balance, with interesting impacts. Excitingly, their research opens the possibility […]