Chymase (CMA1) Active Protein

This gene encodes a chymotryptic serine proteinase that belongs to the peptidase family S1. It is expressed in mast cells and is thought to function in the degradation of the extracellular matrix, the regulation of submucosal gland secretion, and the generation of vasoactive peptides. In the heart and blood vessels, this protein, rather than angiotensin converting enzyme, is largely responsible for converting angiotensin I to the vasoactive peptide angiotensin II. Alternative splicing results in multiple variants. [provided by RefSeq, Apr 2015]

CMA1: Major secreted protease of mast cells with suspected roles in vasoactive peptide generation, extracellular matrix degradation, and regulation of gland secretion. Belongs to the peptidase S1 family. Granzyme subfamily.

Protein type: Secreted; EC 3.4.21.39; Secreted, signal peptide; Protease

Chromosomal Location of Human Ortholog: 14q11.2

Cellular Component: extracellular matrix; extracellular space; extracellular region; intracellular

Molecular Function: serine-type peptidase activity; serine-type endopeptidase activity; peptide binding

Biological Process: extracellular matrix disassembly; interleukin-1 beta biosynthetic process; extracellular matrix organization and biogenesis; positive regulation of angiogenesis; cellular protein metabolic process; midbrain development; regulation of inflammatory response; protein processing; proteolysis; angiotensin maturation