Protein Arginine Deiminase

Protein Arginine Deiminase (PAD) is an enzyme family that catalyzes the conversion of arginine in proteins to citrulline, a process known as citrullination or deimination. This post-translational modification can affect protein structure and function, influencing various biological processes such as gene regulation, apoptosis, and the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps. Abnormal PAD activity is associated with several diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, and cancer. The implication of PAD enzymes in these conditions makes them a significant target for therapeutic intervention. Understanding the role of PADs in disease mechanisms is crucial for developing novel treatments aimed at modulating their activity.