Protease, Serine 23 (PRSS23)

PRSS23 encodes a member of the trypsin family of serine proteases. Mouse studies found a decrease of mRNA levels after ovulation was induced. This gene seems to be highly conserved in vertebrates and may be an important ovarian protease. PRSS23 is associated with cardiovascular diseases, hematological diseases, neurological diseases, cancer, endocrinological diseases, and urological diseases. The invention also features compounds which bind to and/or activate or inhibit the activity of PRSS23 as well as pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds. The invention also provides PRSS23 as a biomarker for diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, hematological diseases, neurological diseases, cancer, endocrinological diseases, and urological diseases.