Elastase and Cathepsin G from Primed Leukocytes Cleave Vascular Endothelial Cadherin in Hemodialysis Patients

Abstract

Elastase and cathepsin G are elevated in the plasma of HD patients, originating from primed PMNLs. In these patients, chronic elevation of these enzymes contributes to cleavage of VE-cadherin and possible disruption of endothelial integrity.