Proteasomes are protein complexes that degrade unneeded or damaged proteins by proteolysis, a chemical reaction that breaks peptide bonds. They play a critical role in processing antigens for presentation on MHC class I molecules.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Proteasomes degrade intracellular proteins into peptides that can be presented by MHC class I molecules.
They are essential for the immune system's ability to recognize and eliminate infected or malignant cells.
The ubiquitin-proteasome pathway tags defective proteins with ubiquitin before they are degraded by proteasomes.
Inhibitors of proteasome activity are being explored as treatments for certain cancers and autoimmune diseases.
Proteasome dysfunction can lead to an accumulation of damaged proteins, contributing to diseases such as Alzheimer's.
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Related terms
Ubiquitin: A small protein that tags defective or unnecessary proteins for degradation by proteasomes.
MHC Class I: Molecules present on almost all nucleated cells that display peptide fragments derived from intracellular proteins.