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Caspase enzymes mediate apoptosis by attacking which of the following?
  • a)
    The cysteine residues in cytochrome c enzymes
  • b)
    The cysteine residues in cytoplasmic proteins
  • c)
    The aspartate residues in cytoplasmic proteins
  • d)
    The cysteine residues in BCL-2 family proteins
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?
Verified Answer
Caspase enzymes mediate apoptosis by attacking which of the following?...
Caspases are a family of proteases (enzymes that cleave proteins) that play a central role in the execution of apoptosis. During apoptosis, caspases are activated and cleave various cellular proteins to initiate and propagate the apoptotic process. Caspases specifically recognize and cleave peptide bonds after aspartate residues within their target proteins. This cleavage of aspartate residues leads to the breakdown of critical cellular components and ultimately results in the characteristic changes associated with apoptosis.
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Caspase enzymes mediate apoptosis by attacking which of the following?...

Apoptosis and Caspase Enzymes:

Apoptosis, also known as programmed cell death, is a highly regulated process essential for normal development and maintenance of tissue homeostasis. Caspases are a family of protease enzymes that play a central role in mediating apoptosis by cleaving specific cellular proteins.

Caspase Attack:

When a cell undergoes apoptosis, caspase enzymes are activated and target specific residues within proteins for cleavage. In the case of caspases, they primarily target aspartate residues in cytoplasmic proteins. This cleavage of aspartate residues leads to the dismantling of the cell, ultimately resulting in its death.

Role of Cysteine Residues:

While cysteine residues are important for the structure and function of many proteins, caspases do not attack these residues in the context of apoptosis. Instead, they specifically recognize and cleave proteins at aspartate residues.

Importance of Caspase Activity:

The activity of caspase enzymes is tightly regulated to ensure proper cell death in response to various signals. Dysregulation of caspase activity can lead to diseases such as cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and autoimmune conditions. Therefore, understanding the precise mechanisms by which caspases mediate apoptosis is crucial for developing targeted therapies for these conditions.

In conclusion, caspase enzymes mediate apoptosis by attacking the aspartate residues in cytoplasmic proteins, not the cysteine residues. This targeted cleavage of specific residues is essential for the orderly dismantling of the cell during apoptosis.
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