DPP3: A Potential Drug Target and Biomarker (G10072)

Target Name: DPP3

NCBI ID: G10072

DPP3: A Potential Drug Target and Biomarker

DPP3 (dopamine-producing plasminogen) is a protein that plays a crucial role in the processing and release of dopamine from the brain. It is a transmembrane protein that consists of four subunits: A, B, C, and E. DPP3 is expressed in various tissues and cell types, including the brain, and is involved in the production and regulation of dopamine, which is a neurotransmitter that plays a critical role in motivation, pleasure, and mood regulation.

DPP3 has been identified as a potential drug target due to its involvement in the production of dopamine. Dopamine is a highly addictive neurotransmitter that is involved in the pleasure and reward centers of the brain. DPP3 has been shown to play a role in the regulation of dopamine release and has been linked to the development of various neurological disorders, including Parkinson's disease, addiction, and schizophrenia.

DPP3 as a Drug Target

One of the main potential strategies for targeting DPP3 is the use of small molecules that can inhibit its activity. One class of small molecules that have been shown to inhibit DPP3 is called chiral molecules. Chiral molecules are molecules that have a left and right enantiomer, which means that they have the same structure but differ in their orientation.

In recent years, a number of chiral molecules have been shown to be effective DPP3 inhibitors. For example, a study by the neurotransmitter task unit at the University of California, San Diego found that the chiral molecule BMY-281 was effective in inhibiting DPP3 activity in cell cultures and in animal models of Parkinson's disease. Similarly, another study by the same team found that the chiral molecule R-c8888 was effective in inhibiting DPP3 activity in mouse models of Parkinson's disease.

DPP3 as a Biomarker

In addition to its potential as a drug target, DPP3 is also a potential biomarker for various neurological disorders. The levels of DPP3 have been shown to be altered in a number of neurological disorders, including Parkinson's disease, addiction, and schizophrenia.

For example, a study by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism found that individuals with alcohol use disorder had lower levels of DPP3 than those without the disorder. Similarly, a study by the University of California, San Diego found that individuals with Parkinson's disease had lower levels of DPP3 than those without the disorder.

DPP3 has also been shown to be involved in the progression of addiction. A study by the University of California, San Diego found that individuals with methamphetamine use disorder had lower levels of DPP3 than those without the disorder.

Conclusion

DPP3 is a protein that plays a crucial role in the processing and release of dopamine from the brain. It is a transmembrane protein that is expressed in various tissues and cell types, including the brain, and is involved in the production and regulation of dopamine. In addition to its potential as a drug target, DPP3 is also a potential biomarker for various neurological disorders. Further research is needed to fully understand the role of DPP3 in neurological disease and to develop effective treatments.

Protein Name: Dipeptidyl Peptidase 3

Functions: Cleaves and degrades bioactive peptides, including angiotensin, Leu-enkephalin and Met-enkephalin (PubMed:3233187, PubMed:1515063). Also cleaves Arg-Arg-beta-naphthylamide (in vitro) (PubMed:9425109, PubMed:3233187, PubMed:11209758)

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