Invitrogen™ ECE1 Polyclonal Antibody

Endothelin-converting enzyme 1 (ECE1) is located on chromosome 1p36.12 and encodes a zinc metalloprotease involved in the maturation of endothelin peptides, which are critical for vascular tone regulation and blood pressure control. ECE1 processes precursor proteins into active endothelins, particularly endothelin-1, the most potent vasoconstrictor known. This enzyme is expressed in multiple tissues, including endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and the central nervous system, where it participates in diverse physiological processes such as vasoconstriction, cell proliferation, and hormone secretion. Beyond its cardiovascular functions, ECE1 is implicated in neural development and neural crest cell migration. Dysregulation of ECE1 activity or endothelin signaling is associated with several pathologies, including hypertension, heart failure, and cancer progression due to its role in controlling vascular dynamics. Research into ECE1 aims to explore its therapeutic potential in managing cardiovascular disorders and its broader implications in systemic pathophysiology.