ADAM metallopeptidase with thrombospondin type 1 motif 16 (ADAMTS16)

ADAM metallopeptidase with thrombospondin type 1 motif 16 (ADAMTS16) is a secreted multi-domain enzyme belonging to the ADAMTS family, sharing features such as a propeptide region, metalloproteinase domain, disintegrin-like domain, and thrombospondin type 1 motifs[2]. The mature protein is generated through proteolytic processing and exhibits metalloendopeptidase activity, regulating cellular processes such as proliferation, migration, and extracellular matrix organization. ADAMTS16 is expressed in fetal lung, kidney, adult brain, ovary, cartilage, and synovium, with gene expression induced by factors like TGF-β and SOX4[2][3]. Its activity is implicated in normal development as well as pathological conditions, including osteoarthritis (where expression is increased), tumoral epithelial-mesenchymal transition and metastasis via activation of the TGF-β1 pathway, and blood pressure regulation[1][3][5]. Substrate specificity remains partly unclear, but reported activities include weak aggrecanase activity and cleavage of α2-macroglobulin inhibitor[1]. Mutations or dysregulated expression have been associated with various diseases including cancer, osteoarthritis, and inherited hypertension. No approved drugs specifically targeting ADAMTS16 are documented, but its role as a regulator of TGF-β activity and extracellular matrix suggests therapeutic relevance[3].

Other names

ADAMTS16KIAA2029ADAM-TS 16ADAM-TS16ADAMTS-16ADAMTS16sa disintegrin-like and metalloprotease (reprolysin type) with thrombospondin type 1 motif, 16

Enzymatic activation of latent TGF-β1 to active TGF-β1 via interaction with LAP-TGF-β1, promoting TGF-β pathway signaling; Regulation of extracellular matrix structure.