Cysteine cathepsins: From diagnosis to targeted therapy of cancer.

Cysteine cathepsins are a fascinating group of proteolytic enzymes that play diverse and crucial roles in numerous biological processes, both in health and disease. Understanding these proteases is essential for uncovering novel insights into the underlying mechanisms of a wide range of disorders, such as cancer. Cysteine cathepsins influence cancer biology by participating in processes such as extracellular matrix degradation, angiogenesis, immune evasion, and apoptosis. In this comprehensive review, we explore foundational research that illuminates the diverse and intricate roles of cysteine cathepsins as diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets for cancer. This review aims to provide valuable insights into the clinical relevance of cysteine cathepsins and explore their capacity to advance personalised and targeted medical interventions in oncology. • Cysteine cathepsins are pivotal in many cancer processes, making them desirable therapeutic targets. • Irregular cysteine cathepsin levels can serve as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in various cancers. • Development of molecular probes for cysteine cathepsins enhances diagnostic imaging and image-guided surgery. • Selective inhibitors and novel drug delivery systems targeting cysteine cathepsins hold promise for innovative cancer treatments. • Advances in antibody-drug conjugates utilizing cysteine cathepsins offer major potential in cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]