Aminopeptidase O (AOPEP)

Aminopeptidase O (AOPEP) is a zinc-dependent metallopeptidase of the M1 aminopeptidase family that catalyzes the removal of amino acids from the N-terminus of peptide and protein substrates[1][2][7][8]. It shows a preference for peptides featuring an N-terminal arginine or, to a lesser extent, asparagine[1]. AOPEP is involved in proteolytic processing of bioactive peptides, including the conversion of angiotensin III to angiotensin IV, playing a potential role in the renin–angiotensin pathway and thus in the regulation of vascular and cardiac physiology[1]. Expression of AOPEP is observed in a variety of tissues such as pancreas, placenta, liver, testis, and heart, with some isoforms predominantly in blood vessels[1]. Clinically, AOPEP has been linked to Dystonia 31 and Fanconi anemia, and its cardiac expression suggests it may influence type I muscle fiber function and maximal oxygen uptake[2][1][7]. AOPEP can be inhibited by certain aminopeptidase-targeting drugs, such as arphamenine A and metalloprotease inhibitors[1][3].

Other names

C9orf3AP-OAPOC90RF3ONPEPaminopeptidase O (putative)FLJ14675DYT31

Inhibition of AOPEP enzymatic activity, preventing cleavage of N-terminal amino acids from substrates, potentially altering peptide hormone activity and bioactive peptide signaling\nArphamenine A inhibits AOPEP as a transition state analog for aminopeptidases[1][3]