ENTPDases

Ectonucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolases, commonly known as ENTPDases, are a family of enzymes that hydrolyze extracellular nucleoside triphosphates and diphosphates. These enzymes play a crucial role in regulating the extracellular concentrations of nucleotides, which act as signaling molecules. The ENTPDase family consists of several members, including ENTPD1 (CD39), ENTPD2 (CD39L1), ENTPD3 (CD39L2), ENTPD4 (CD39L3), ENTPD5 (CD39L4), and ENTPD6 (CD39L5). Each member exhibits distinct substrate specificities and tissue distribution. For example, ENTPD1 is particularly important in regulating adenosine signaling, converting ATP and ADP to AMP, and then further hydrolyzing AMP to adenosine. This process is vital for immune system regulation and cardiovascular function. ENTPDases are involved in a wide range of physiological processes, including inflammation, thrombosis, pain sensation, and vascular tone. Dysregulation of ENTPDase activity has been implicated in various pathological conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, cancer, and cardiovascular disorders. Research into ENTPDases continues to explore their therapeutic potential as targets for drug development.