Calcium Dependent Neutral Proteinase, also known as Calcium-activated neutral proteinase or Calpain, refers to a family of intracellular enzymes that are dependent on calcium ions for their activity. These proteases are present in various living organisms, including animals, plants, and bacteria.
Calcium Dependent Neutral Proteinases are involved in a wide range of physiological processes, particularly in regulating cellular functions such as cell proliferation, differentiation, signaling, and apoptosis (programmed cell death). They play a crucial role in remodeling and maintaining the structural integrity of cells and tissues, as well as in the processing of bioactive molecules.
The activity of Calcium Dependent Neutral Proteinase is tightly regulated by the presence or absence of calcium ions. When there is an increase in intracellular calcium concentration, calpains are activated, leading to the cleavage of specific substrate proteins. This proteolytic activity results in the modification of protein function, degradation of damaged or misfolded proteins, and the generation of bioactive fragments.
Malfunctions in the regulation of Calcium Dependent Neutral Proteinases have been associated with various diseases and pathological conditions, including neurodegenerative disorders, muscular dystrophies, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and inflammatory disorders.
Overall, Calcium Dependent Neutral Proteinases play fundamental roles in cellular homeostasis and are essential for maintaining normal physiological functions. Further understanding of these proteases can have significant implications for the development of therapeutic strategies targeting various diseases.
