| Modification Notes |
Hyaluronidases (HAases or HYALs) are a family of lysosomal enzymes that are crucial for the spread of bacterial infections and of toxins present in a variety of venoms. HYALs may also be involved in the progression of cancer. In humans, six HYAL proteins have been identified. HYAL proteins use hydrolysis to degrade hyaluronic acid (HA), which is present in body fluids, tissues, and the extracellular matrix of vertebrate tissues. HA keeps tissues hydrated, maintains osmotic balance, and promotes cell proliferation, differentiation, and metastasis. HA is also an important structural component of cartilage and acts as a lubricant in joints. HYAL4 is differentially expressed in placenta and skeletal muscle and contains an N-glycosylation site with tripeptide patterns. HYAL4 may form a complex with HYALP1, HYAL5, and Ph-20. |