Caspase protein (family) (CASP)

The caspase family encompasses cysteine-dependent aspartate-directed proteases fundamental for cell death pathways, immune responses, and cellular homeostasis. They are classified into initiator caspases (e.g., Caspase-8, Caspase-9) and effector caspases (e.g., Caspase-3, Caspase-7), functioning in highly regulated enzymatic cascades. Caspases drive apoptosis (programmed cell death), pyroptosis (inflammatory cell death), and other processes including immune defense and tissue remodeling. Dysregulation is implicated in cancer, neurodegeneration, cardiovascular and autoimmune diseases. As therapeutic targets, caspases are modulated by drugs that induce or inhibit their activity, and their cleavage products serve as specific biomarkers for drug response and disease mechanisms. However, precise targeting is necessary to avoid excessive cell death or immune suppression.

Other names

Apoptotic protease Mch-2 (Caspase-6)Interleukin-1β converting enzyme (Caspase-1, ICE)Apopain, CPP32, Yama protein (Caspase-3)FLICE (Caspase-8)Numerous other member-specific names

Induction or inhibition of apoptosis through caspase activation or blockade. Selective inhibition of caspase catalytic activity by small molecules/peptides. Interference with upstream signals (e.g., death receptors for Caspase-8, mitochondrial signals for Caspase-9).