Fusion proteins of protease inhibitors are provided, in particular fusion
proteins of alpha 1-antitrypsin (AAT) and a second protease inhibitor,
such as secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI) or tissue inhibitor
of metalloproteases (TIMP). Polynucleotides encoding the fusion proteins,
vectors comprising such polynucleotides, and host cells containing such
vectors are also provided. Methods of making the fusion proteins of the
invention are also provide, as well as methods of using the fusion
proteins, for example to inhibit protease activity in a biological sample
or in the treatment of an individual suffering from, or at risk for, a
disease or disorder involving unwanted protease activity.