Skip to main content

HtrA serine peptidase 1

The HTRA1 gene provides instructions for making a protein that is found in many of the body's organs and tissues. This protein is a type of enzyme called a serine protease, which has an active center that cuts (cleaves) other proteins into smaller pieces. The HTRA1 enzyme helps break down many other kinds of proteins in the space surrounding cells (the extracellular matrix).

Normal function

The HTRA1 gene provides instructions for making a protein that is found in many of the body's organs and tissues. This protein is a type of enzyme called a serine protease, which has an active center that cuts (cleaves) other proteins into smaller pieces. The HTRA1 enzyme helps break down many other kinds of proteins in the space surrounding cells (the extracellular matrix).

The HTRA1 enzyme also attaches (binds) to proteins in the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) family and slows down (inhibits) their ability to send chemical signals. TGF-β proteins normally help control many critical cell functions, including the growth and division (proliferation) of cells, the process by which cells mature to carry out specific functions (differentiation), cell movement (motility), and the self-destruction of cells (apoptosis). TGF-β signaling also plays an important role in the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis).

Researchers have proposed several additional functions for the HTRA1 enzyme. It may play a role in the stabilization of microtubules, which are rigid, hollow fibers that make up the cell's structural framework (cytoskeleton). Additionally, the HTRA1 enzyme may be involved in depositing minerals, such as calcium and phosphorus, in developing bone (mineralization). Studies have also suggested that the HTRA1 enzyme acts as a tumour suppressor, a protein that helps prevent the development of cancerous tumours by keeping cells from growing and dividing in an uncontrolled way.

Conditions referring to this gene or chromosome

Other names

ARMD7

HtrA

HTRA1_HUMAN

IGFBP5-protease

L56

ORF480

protease, serine, 11 (IGF binding)

PRSS11

serine protease HTRA1

Related patient information and medicines

Travelling to remote locations

Patient information leaflet

Travelling to remote locations

Self-treatment is a last resort as it is very difficult for anyone to make treatment decisions about themselves. Reference book Pocket First Aid and Wilderness Medicine: Drs Jim Duff and Peter Gormly (2010). This is an excellent handbook covering what to do as a layperson in most medical situations you might encounter. Equipment Thermom....

Giant Cell Arteritis

Patient information leaflet

Giant Cell Arteritis

Other treatments Studies have shown that the use of a medication called tocilizumab alongside the steroids improves the chances of stopping or reducing the steroids without relapse. In the UK, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance is currently that this should only be used in people who have already had a relapse or.

Kidney stones

Patient information leaflet

Kidney stones

Kidney stones are hard stones that can cause severe pain in your side along with blood in your urine, and nausea and vomiting. You are more likely to develop kidney stones if you eat a Western diet, don't drink enough fluids or are overweight. Once you have had one episode they are likely to recur but there are several kidney stone treatment.

Down's syndrome screening

Patient information leaflet

Down's syndrome screening

There are two different types of tests that can be done to look for Down's syndrome during pregnancy - a screening test and a diagnostic test. What is Down's syndrome. Down's syndrome is a genetic chromosome problem that some people are born with. A person with Down's syndrome can usually be recognised by their typical features. It can also cause.

Pneumococcal immunisation

Patient information leaflet

Pneumococcal immunisation

Pneumococcus can cause diseases such as pneumonia, meningitis and blood infections. Children aged under 2 years should receive the vaccine. You should consider pneumococcal immunisation if you are aged over 65 years or have certain diseases of the lung, heart, kidney, liver and nervous system. What is the pneumococcus. Pneumococcus is a germ.

Telogen effluvium

Patient information leaflet

Telogen effluvium

Telogen effluvium (hair loss) is a condition where more than normal amounts of hair fall out. There is a general 'thinning' of the hair. Many other medications have been linked to telogen effluvium, but some of the most common are beta-blockers; retinoids, including excess vitamin A (often used for skin problems); anticoagulants (often called.

Further reading and references

Article history

The information on this page is written and peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
  • 11 Apr 2023 | Latest version
  • 1 Jun 2011 | Originally published

Join the conversation

Share your thoughts or experiences with others in our patient communities.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in the community do not represent medical advice. For any health concerns, consult your GP or healthcare provider.
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.