Biochem/physiol Actions

Cathepsin D (CatD) takes part in the intracellular degradation of advanced glycation end (AGE) products. AGE deposition is predominant in photoaged skin. Thus, CatD might be useful in antiphotoaging therapy. Elevated circulating CatD is observed in type 2 diabetes and can be considered as an important biomarker for type 2 diabetes dependent cardiac dysfunction. Increased CatD, is observed in non-alcoholic steatohepatitis.

General description

This gene is mapped to human chromosome 11p15.5.

Cathepsin D is also known as CTSD, CPSD, which belongs to the peptidase A1 family. Cathepsin D can be cleaved into the following 2 chains: cathepsin D light chain and cathepsin D heavy chain, which is expressed in the aorta extracellular space (at protein level). The catalytic activity of Cathepsin D is specificity similar to, but narrower than, that of pepsin A. Cathepsin D does not cleave the 4-Gln-|-His-5 bond in B chain of insulin. Cathepsin D involved in the pathogenesis of several diseases such as breast cancer and possibly Alzheimer disease.

Physical form

Lyophilized from 0.22 µm filtered solution in 50 mM MES, pH 6.5 with 100 mM NaCl. Generally 5-8% Mannitol or trehalose is added as a protectant before lyophilization.

Reconstitution

Centrifuge the vial prior to opening. Reconstitute in sterile PBS, pH 7.4 to a concentration of 50 µg/mL. Do not vortex. This solution can be stored at 2-8°C for up to 1 month. For extended storage, it is recommended to store at -20°C.