Proteinase inhibitors (PIs) are widely distributed in plants, microorganisms and mammalian species; they are known to play pivotal roles in regulating proteinase activities in these species. Accordingly, PIs are important molecular tools for many research disciplines. Studies of the correlation of PI structures and functions have lead to understanding of their inhibitory actions against physiological important proteases. There are potential therapeutic applications for such studies for diseases relating to excessive activities of proteases. Our studies on PIs in Viet nam have been begun since 1986, focusing on the following topics:.
