Native human Cathepsin D protein

Supplementary information

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Biological function summary

The enzymatic activity of Cathepsin D is important for cellular maintenance and apoptosis. This protease does not act within larger protein complexes but contributes to the degradation of extracellular and intracellular proteins. It mediates processes like antigen processing where it deconstructs proteins into peptides that are presented on major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules. ELISA tests can quantify its expression levels sometimes termed as CTSD activity in various biological samples offering insights into its role within cellular environments.

Pathways

Cathepsin D involvement includes the lysosomal degradation pathway and the apoptotic signaling pathway. In the lysosomal degradation pathway Cathepsin D breaks down proteins and peptides a process important for cellular recycling and energy release. It interacts with other lysosomal enzymes such as Cathepsin B in this pathway ensuring comprehensive breakdown of cellular waste. The apoptotic signaling pathway involves the regulation of programmed cell death where Cathepsin D can influence the activation of downstream proteins like Bcl-2 and Bax which control cell survival.