Molecular Classification
Enzyme, Metallocarboxypeptidase
Other Names
Carboxypeptidase H, Neurotrophic factor-α1, CPE-NFα1
Disease Roles
ObesityDiabetes mellitus type IIInfertility

Carboxypeptidase E Overview

Carboxypeptidase E (CPE), also known as carboxypeptidase H or neurotrophic factor-α1 (CPE-NFα1), is a zinc-dependent metallocarboxypeptidase primarily involved in the processing and maturation of peptide hormones and neuropeptides. It functions by cleaving basic amino acids from the C-terminal end of peptide precursors, thereby generating their active forms. Beyond hormone processing, CPE plays critical roles in metabolic processes including glucose homeostasis, bone remodeling, fertility regulation, stress response modulation, learning/memory formation, mood/emotional responses. Dysfunctions are linked with obesity, diabetes mellitus type II, infertility, learning disabilities/cognitive impairment, and neurodegenerative diseases.

Mechanism of Action

Cleaves C-terminal basic amino acids from peptide precursors

Biological Functions

Neuropeptide processing
Peptide hormone processing
Exopeptidase activity
Sorting receptor
Vesicle transport regulation
Neurotrophic factor

Disease Associations

Obesity
Diabetes mellitus type II
Infertility
Learning disabilities/cognitive impairment
Neurodegenerative disease
Alzheimer's disease

Safety Considerations

No safety concerns listed