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REVIEW: Natural Catalytic Antibodies (Abzymes) in Normalcy and Pathology

G. A. Nevinsky*, T. G. Kanyshkova, and V. N. Buneva

Novosibirsk Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Siberian Division of the Russian Academy of Sciences, ul. Lavrentieva 8, Novosibirsk, 630090 Russia; E-mail: Nevinsky@niboch.nsc.ru

* To whom correspondence should be addressed.

Received April 10, 2000; Revision received June 5, 2000
This review summarizes literature data on natural abzymes. Peculiar features of their functioning and substrate specificity are considered in comparison with traditional enzymes. Working hypotheses on the possible biological roles of natural abzymes in autoimmune processes and diseases accompanied by disorders of immune status are analyzed.
KEY WORDS: natural catalytic antibodies, autoimmune diseases