Bacterial zinc proteases

Metalloproteases present in various clostridial species (Clostridium tetani and Clostridium botulinum) as well as in Bacillus anthracis are zinc proteases among the most toxic/dangerous compounds known in nature. These proteases, the botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT), the tetanus neurotoxin (TeNT), and the anthrax lethal factor (LF), contain a Zn(II) ion coordinated by two His residues and a Glu residue, similarly to many other zinc proteases widespread in bacteria and other organisms. Different peptido-mimetic and nonpeptide inhibitors were reported for these enzymes in recent years. Such compounds, presently in preclinical evaluation, may be effective in case of.terroristic attacks in which such toxins are used or for treating diseases provoked by these widespread bacteria. Furthermore, BoNT A has many applications in medicine, for the management of dystonias, strabismus, facial wrinkling, brow position, as well as palmar and axillary hyperhidrosis.