aminopeptidáz

Aminopeptidase is a type of enzyme that cleaves amino acids from the N-terminus of a polypeptide chain. These enzymes belong to the broader class of proteases, which are responsible for breaking down proteins. Aminopeptidases play crucial roles in various biological processes, including protein turnover, digestion, and peptide hormone metabolism.

The specific amino acid released by an aminopeptidase depends on its substrate specificity. Some aminopeptidases are highly specific, cleaving only a particular type of amino acid, while others are more generalist, acting on a range of amino acid residues. This enzymatic activity is essential for many cellular functions. For instance, in the digestive system, aminopeptidases contribute to the breakdown of dietary proteins into smaller peptides and amino acids that can be absorbed by the body.

In addition to digestion, aminopeptidases are involved in intracellular protein degradation. This process helps to remove damaged or misfolded proteins, as well as regulate the lifespan of functional proteins. Some aminopeptidases are also found on the cell surface, where they can participate in cell signaling and the processing of extracellular peptides. The dysregulation of aminopeptidase activity has been linked to various diseases, highlighting their importance in maintaining cellular and organismal health.