DPPIV/CD26 as a Target in Anti-inflammatory Therapy

Abstract Dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPPIV/CD26) is an enzyme involved in glucose homeostasis and it is the therapeutic target of the so-called gliptins in type 2 diabetes. However, the function of this enzyme reaches much further, and through its substrate cleavage and interactions it can play a role in the immune system. The available (pre-)clinical data on the therapeutically used DPPIV/CD26-inhibitors in inflammatory diseases such as type 1 diabetes, psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis are discussed here. We also look into several naturally occurring DPPIV/CD26-inhibitors and review whether these can be of additional value next to conventional therapy as a functional food or nutraceutical.