This gene encodes a chymotryptic serine proteinase that belongs to the peptidase family S1. It is expressed in mast cells and is thought to function in the degradation of the extracellular matrix, the regulation of submucosal gland secretion, and the generation of vasoactive peptides. In the heart and blood vessels, this protein, rather than angiotensin converting enzyme, is largely responsible for converting angiotensin I to the vasoactive peptide angiotensin II. Alternative splicing results in multiple variants.CMA1 (Chymase 1) is a Protein Coding gene. Diseases associated with CMA1 include Urticaria Pigmentosa and Urticaria. Among its related pathways are Degradation of the extracellular matrix and Agents Acting on the Renin-Angiotensin System Pathway, Pharmacodynamics. GO annotations related to this gene include serine-type endopeptidase activity and peptide binding. An important paralog of this gene is GZMB.