Re-expression of Dipeptidylpeptidase 4 (DPP4) in melanoma cells – insights into molecular consequences

CD 26 a type-II membrane protein – also known as dipeptidyl peptidase IV – is a multifunctional enzyme covering functions as costimulatory molecule during T cell activation as well as receptor for extracellular matrix molecules like fibronectin and collagen. It functions as a cell surface peptidase. Among the substrates for the intrinsic serine protease activity there are chemokines like RANTES, MCP 1–3 and SDF1a. CD26 is expressed on epithelial cells of the intestine, on cells of the proximal tubuli of the kidney and on activated T-, B-cells and activated NK cells. It can be detected as a secreted form in the s…