tryptaas

Tryptase is a protease enzyme belonging to the serine protease family. It is primarily found in mast cells, a type of immune cell that plays a crucial role in allergic reactions and inflammation. Tryptase is stored in granules within mast cells and is released into the bloodstream and surrounding tissues when mast cells are activated. This activation can occur due to various stimuli, including allergens, physical injury, or certain medications.

There are several isoforms of tryptase, with alpha- and beta-tryptase being the most common in humans. Beta-tryptase is the predominant form found in mast cell granules and is considered the main mediator of tryptase's effects. Alpha-tryptase is also present but is thought to have less enzymatic activity.

The release of tryptase during mast cell degranulation contributes to the symptoms of allergic reactions. Tryptase can activate other inflammatory mediators, degrade extracellular matrix proteins, and influence blood vessel permeability, leading to symptoms such as swelling, redness, itching, and broncho-constriction. Elevated levels of tryptase in the blood are often used as a marker for mast cell activation and can be helpful in diagnosing conditions like anaphylaxis and mast cell activation disorders. While primarily associated with allergic responses, tryptase also has roles in normal physiological processes, though these are less well-understood.