An Overview about the Relationship between Cystatin C and Inflammatory Diseases

Abstract

Cystatin C (Cys-C) is a protease inhibitor that can be produced by nuclear cells in the human body. Its principal function is to inhibit the activity of various cysteine proteases in vivo. In addition, Cys-C also plays an essential role in regulating antigen presentation, extracellular matrix degradation, and the balance of protein production and decomposition in living cells. Cys-C is involved in the pathophysiological processes of chronic inflammatory diseases, including cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and respiratory diseases. This article reviews the effects of Cys-C on chronic inflammatory diseases and its therapeutic prospects.