Localisation and characterisation of aminopeptidases in the CNS and the hydrolysis of enkephalin

Abstract

THE possible neurotransmitter or neuromodulatory roles of several peptides found in the mammalian central nervous system (CNS) has prompted interest in peptidase enzymes which might be involved in their formation and degradation. Particular interest has focussed on the arylamidases which have been implicated in the formation and destruction of peptides such as angiotensin II, kinins and the enkephalins^1–3. We report here selective localisation of some arylamidases to particular cells and regions of the mouse CNS. The difference in substrate specificities suggests that particular enzymes could play a select role in the metabolism of particular peptides, whereas others are probably involved more generally with protein metabolism.