Transglutaminases

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Transglutaminases are a family of enzymes found in diverse organisms, from bacteria to mammals and plants. They catalyze the formation of isopeptide bonds, which are highly stable and resistant to proteolytic degradation. These bonds play a crucial role in physiological processes, accumulating in hair and skin, and during wound healing, apoptosis, and blood clotting. Dysregulation of transglutaminase functions is linked to various pathological conditions, including neurodegeneration, autoimmune diseases, infectious diseases, progressive tissue fibrosis, and issues related to the epidermis's stratum corneum. Their ability to form stable isopeptide bonds is also utilized in food processing and the textile industry. Recent research has revealed their involvement in numerous biological processes, including cell growth, reproduction, and cell death. With the discovery of new transglutaminase family members and their functions, it is essential to compile these findings. This volume serves as a comprehensive resource for both new investigators and established researchers, focusing on the biological significance of transglutaminases in cancer, inflammation, autoimmune diseases, and related research areas.