| Protein Name | Cathepsin A (CTSA) |
|---|---|
| Gene | CTSA |
| UniProt | P22785 |
| PDB Structures | 1IVH, 2D8O |
| Molecular Weight | 54 kDa (479 aa) |
| Subcellular Localization | Lysosome, Secreted |
| Expression | Ubiquitous; highest in liver, kidney |
Cathepsin A (CTSA) is a lysosomal carboxypeptidase belonging to the serine protease family. It plays a critical role in lysosomal protein degradation and has been implicated in neurodegenerative diseases through its involvement in protein aggregation and autophagy.
Cathepsin A is synthesized as a preproenzyme (54 kDa) that undergoes:
The mature enzyme forms a complex with β-galactosidase and neuraminidase in lysosomes, essential for their stability and activity.
| Partner | Interaction Type | Relevance |
|---|---|---|
| β-Galactosidase | Complex formation | Lysosomal enzyme stability |
| Neuraminidase | Complex formation | Glycoprotein processing |
| GBA1 | Functional pathway | Lysosomal glucocerebrosidase activity |
| α-Synuclein | Substrate | PD aggregation |
Cathepsin A represents a potential therapeutic target for: