CTSA : cathepsin A
Description
The CTSA (cathepsin A) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 20.
The CTSA gene provides instructions for making cathepsin A, a protein with dual functions: as a protease, breaking down other proteins, and as a protective protein, safeguarding other enzymes from premature breakdown. This protective role earned it the alternative name PPCA (protective protein/cathepsin A). Cathepsin A resides in lysosomes, cellular compartments responsible for digesting and recycling materials. It collaborates with beta-galactosidase and neuraminidase 1, enzymes involved in breaking down sugar molecules (oligosaccharides) attached to proteins (glycoproteins) or fats (glycolipids). On the cell surface, cathepsin A forms a complex with neuraminidase 1 and elastin-binding protein, creating the elastin-binding protein receptor. This complex plays a role in the formation of elastic fibers, crucial components of the connective tissues that provide the body's structural support.
CTSA encodes a protein that acts as a protective protein for beta-galactosidase and neuraminidase, ensuring their stability and activity. It also functions as a carboxypeptidase, capable of deamidating tachykinins.
CTSA is also known as GLB2, GSL, NGBE, PPCA, PPGB.
