Characterization of proteases with the specificity to cleave at the secretase-site of β-APP

Abstract

The β-amyloid precursor protein (APP) can be proteolytically processed in at least two different ways either in a secretory pathway or in a lysosomal pathway. The proposed sites for the ‘secretase’ cleavage are the Gln 15-Lys 16 and Lys 16-Leu 17 peptide bonds within the βA4 domain. Using chromogenic peptide substrates derived from these APP sites, proteolytic enzymes were investigated in the brain of AD patients and control individuals. Mean differences in enzyme activity were observed between the two groups, although no statistical significance was reached. Further analysis in rat brain allowed identification of the lysosomal cathepsin B and the cytosolic proteasome as secretase-like enzymes. They are probably not involved in APP secretion but possibly in removal of amyloidogenic fragments.