meprins

Meprins are a family of zinc-dependent metalloproteases in the astacin superfamily. In humans they are encoded by the MEP1A (meprin α) and MEP1B (meprin β) genes. Meprins are secreted proteases that can form homomeric or heteromeric multimeric complexes and may be released into the extracellular space or associated with the cell surface.

They contain the catalytic metalloprotease domain typical of astacins and require zinc for activity. Their maturation involves processing of an inhibitory propeptide to generate active enzymes.

Expression is highest in epithelial tissues such as kidney and intestine, though patterns vary by species. In many mammals, meprin α is abundant in the intestinal brush border, whereas meprin β is prominent in renal tubules, with distribution that can differ between tissues and organisms.

Substrates of meprins include extracellular matrix components, peptide hormones, and inflammatory mediators. Through proteolysis they contribute to extracellular remodeling, processing of signaling molecules, and modulation of barrier function in mucosal tissues and the kidney.

Clinical relevance and research aspects: Dysregulation of meprin activity has been associated with kidney injury and inflammatory conditions in animal studies, and meprin function is investigated for its roles in gut and kidney physiology. Meprins are the subject of ongoing research to clarify their substrates, regulation, and contributions to health and disease across species.