PMN-Elastase is a 30 kDa glycoprotein and member of the serine protease family, released by human polymorphonuclear (PMN) granulocytes—primarily neutrophils. It is stored in the azurophil granules of these cells and is secreted during immune activation, particularly in response to tissue irritation or neutrophil disintegration. PMN-Elastase plays a central role in degrading extracellular matrix components and modulating inflammatory responses, making it a key biomarker for detecting neutrophil-driven inflammation.
In clinical and research settings, PMN-Elastase is widely used to assess inflammatory activity, particularly in gastrointestinal diseases. Measurement of PMN-Elastase in stool is valuable for monitoring intestinal inflammation where neutrophils are prominently involved, such as in Crohn’s disease. During active phases of the disease, enhanced phagocytic activity and neutrophil breakdown result in the elevated release of PMN-Elastase, serving as a direct indicator of mucosal inflammation and immune system engagement.
Because of its specificity to neutrophil activity, PMN-Elastase serves as a reliable non-invasive biomarker for evaluating disease severity, monitoring therapeutic responses, and differentiating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) from non-inflammatory conditions. Its inclusion in diagnostic panels enhances the clinical understanding of chronic inflammation, supporting both diagnosis and longitudinal disease management.
This product is manufactured in Germany by Immundiagnostik AG.