Advances in ADAMTS biomarkers.

Abstract

A Disintegrin and Metalloproteinase with Thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTS) are major mediators in extracellular matrix (ECM) turnover and have gained increasing interest over the last years as major players in ECM remodeling during tissue homeostasis and the development of diseases. Although, ADAMTSs are recognized in playing important roles during tissue remodeling, and loss of function in various member of the ADAMTS family could be associated with the development of numerous diseases, limited knowledge is available about their specific substrates and mechanism of action. In this chapter, we will review current knowledge about ADAMTSs and their use as disease biomarkers.