Protease expression by microorganisms and its relevance to crucial physiological/pathological events

Figure 3 Rationale of the research works developed in the André Santos’ laboratory. The main purpose of our study focuses on the identification and biochemical characterization of cellular and/or extracellular proteases produced by eukaryotic microorganisms, especially trypanosomatids and fungi. Subsequently, we have focused on the discovery of possible biological functions for these hydrolytic enzymes in both the social context of the microbial cell and the participation in interaction events with biotic and abiotic substrates. Finally, we have used the protease inhibitors in an attempt to block vital processes in microbial cells, thus preventing a successful infection.