Abstract:
The potential role of proteolytic enzymes in impeding the growth of cancer by the anti-angiogenesis process has gained attention recently. This review explores proteolytic enzymes that have been studied for their capacity to obstruct the development of new blood vessels that are essential for the growth of tumors. These enzymes include matrix metalloproteinase and serine proteases. The mechanisms by which these enzymes inhibit angiogenesis including degradation of extracellular matrix proteins and inhibition of signaling pathways involved in blood vessel formation are discussed. Also, proteolytic enzymes’ possible therapeutic applications as anti-angiogenesis drugs in the treatment of cancer are highlighted.
