Tsüstatiine

Tsüstatiin is a protein family that plays a crucial role in regulating cysteine protease activity. These proteases, such as cathepsins, are involved in a wide range of cellular processes including protein degradation, antigen processing, and apoptosis. Tsüstatiin acts as an endogenous inhibitor, binding to the active site of cysteine proteases and preventing their catalytic activity. This inhibitory function is essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis and preventing uncontrolled protease-driven damage.

The tsüstatiin family comprises several members, each with distinct expression patterns and specificities for different cysteine proteases. For instance, cystatin C is found in extracellular fluids and plays a role in neuroprotection and kidney function. Cystatin A and B are primarily intracellular and are involved in keratinocyte differentiation and other cellular processes. Dysregulation of tsüstatiin levels or mutations in tsüstatiin genes have been linked to various diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders, autoimmune diseases, and cancer. Research into tsüstatiin continues to uncover its diverse roles in health and disease, making it a significant target for therapeutic interventions.