Caspase Family Proteins (Caspases)

Caspases are a family of cysteine-dependent aspartate-specific proteases that play essential roles in programmed cell death (apoptosis) and inflammation. They are synthesized as inactive zymogens (procaspases) and activated by proteolytic cleavage. Caspases are classified into initiator, effector, and inflammatory caspases, each with distinct roles in apoptotic and inflammatory pathways. They recognize specific tetrapeptide motifs in substrates and their activity is tightly regulated by endogenous inhibitors and regulatory feedback mechanisms. Caspase dysregulation is implicated in various diseases, including cancer, neurodegeneration, and immune disorders.

Other names

Caspase-2Caspase-3Caspase-6Caspase-7Caspase-8Caspase-9Caspase-10Caspase-1Caspase-4Caspase-5Caspase-11Caspase-12Cysteine-aspartic acid proteasesCysteine-dependent aspartate-specific proteasesCDPs (caspase-dependent non-lethal cellular processes)

Proteolytic cleavage of target proteins after aspartate residues leading to apoptosis or inflammation.