An Essential Role for Ectodomain Shedding in Mammalian Development

Abstract
The ectodomains of numerous proteins are released from cells by proteolysis to yield soluble intercellular regulators. The responsible protease, tumor necrosis factor-α converting enzyme (TACE), has been identified only in the case when tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα) is released. Analyses of cells lacking this metalloproteinase-disintegrin revealed an expanded role for TACE in the processing of other cell surface proteins, including a TNF receptor, thel-selectin adhesion molecule, and transforming growth factor-α (TGFα). The phenotype of mice lacking TACE suggests an essential role for soluble TGFα in normal development and emphasizes the importance of protein ectodomain shedding in vivo.