Granzyme E (GZME)

GMG cell differentiation is manifested by the accumulation of the cytolytic mediators, perforin, granzyme A, and granzyme B, within cytoplasmic granules. The signaling mechanisms required for GMG cell differentiation are largely unknown, although recent in vitro assays have implicated IL-15 in these events. Granzymes D, E, F, and G (granzymes D-G) are also expressed in GMG cells but at a later stage in pregnancy when compared with granzyme A expression. Whereas granzyme A is expressed in early to mid-gestation, the expression of granzymes D-G peak in mid- to late gestation.Granzymes D-G are up-regulated by IL-2 and IL-15 in primary cultures containing GMG cells. IL-2 and/or IL-15 may regulate GMG cell differentiation in vivo, and that granzymes D-G may have different functions than granzyme A during pregnancy.