self proteolysis

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The hydrolysis of proteins into smaller polypeptides and/or amino acids by cleavage of their own peptide bonds. [GOC:yaf, PMID:18676612, PMID:19144634]

Self-proteolysis, also known as autolysis, is a biological process where a protein degrades itself through its own enzymatic activity. This process is often regulated by specific cellular signals and can occur in various contexts, including:

* **Protein maturation:** During the synthesis and activation of certain proteins, self-proteolysis may be necessary to remove inactive pro-peptides or to generate active fragments. This is observed in enzymes like caspases, which play crucial roles in apoptosis.

* **Protein degradation and turnover:** Self-proteolysis can contribute to the degradation and removal of damaged or misfolded proteins, maintaining cellular homeostasis. This is a common mechanism in proteasomal degradation, where specific proteins are targeted for destruction.

* **Regulation of cellular processes:** Self-proteolysis can be used to regulate specific cellular processes, such as signaling pathways or gene expression. For instance, the cleavage of a protein by its own enzymatic activity can activate or deactivate a downstream signaling cascade.

* **Viral infection and pathogenesis:** Some viruses utilize self-proteolysis as a means to spread and replicate within a host. For example, the HIV protease cleaves viral polyproteins into individual proteins necessary for viral assembly and release.

The mechanism of self-proteolysis varies depending on the specific protein and context. Some proteins contain intrinsic enzymatic activity within their own sequence, while others require cofactors or modifications to activate their proteolytic activity. The process often involves a specific cleavage site within the protein sequence, which is recognized and hydrolyzed by the protein's own enzymatic domain.

Self-proteolysis is a highly regulated process, often controlled by factors like pH, temperature, substrate availability, and the presence of inhibitors or activators. Dysregulation of self-proteolysis can lead to various pathologies, including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and autoimmune disorders.

Overall, self-proteolysis is a fundamental biological process with significant implications for cellular function, development, and disease. It plays crucial roles in protein maturation, degradation, regulation of cellular processes, and viral pathogenesis.'
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Proteins (4)

Compounds (39)