Cpropeptide

Cpropeptide refers to the propeptide segment cleaved from the C-terminus of a protein during its maturation process. Propeptides are often inhibitory sequences that keep the mature protein inactive until they are removed. This cleavage is a crucial step in the activation and proper functioning of many proteins, particularly enzymes and hormones. For example, in the synthesis of insulin, a C-peptide is removed from proinsulin to form mature insulin. This C-peptide is a useful biomarker for insulin production. Similarly, procollagens have C-terminal propeptides that are essential for the proper assembly of collagen fibrils. The enzymatic machinery responsible for cleaving these propeptides is highly specific, ensuring that the correct segments are removed at the right time and place. The study of Cpropeptides is important in understanding protein processing, regulation, and the development of certain diseases where propeptide cleavage is impaired.