Application

Cathepsin D from human liver has been used:in β-secretase activity assayfor enzymatic degradation of amyloid β 1-42in microinjection of human foreskin fibroblasts

Biochem/physiol Actions

Cathepsin D is an endosomal-lysosomal aspartic protease implicated in breast cancer metastasis and Alzheimer’;s disease. Lysosomal release of cathepsin D has been found to precede cytochrome c release and loss of membrane potential in apoptotic human foreskin fibroblasts. Cathepsin D levels in PC12 cells increase 12 to 24 hours after apoptosis is induced.

General description

Cathepsin D is an aspartic protease, which is located in lysosomes. It is involved in protein catabolism and maintains hormone and antigen processing. Cathepsin D is implicated in neoplasia and neurodegenerative changes. It regulates lysosomal proteolysis and endogenous fibrinolysis.

Other Notes

Contains α, β and γ isoenzymes as observed by isoelectric-focusing.

Physical form

Powder containing sodium phosphate buffer salt.

Unit Definition

One unit will produce an increase in A₂₈₀ of 1.0 in 30 min at pH 3.3 at 37 °C measured as TCA-soluble products using acid-denatured hemoglobin as substrate (1 cm light path).