P29466

Caspase-1 also known as CASP-1 is a member of the cysteine-aspartic acid protease (caspase) family. Caspase-1 plays a crucial role in the maturation of pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-18 (IL-18) through the proteolytic cleavage of their inactive precursors. Post-translational modifications of caspase-1, particularly autocatalytic cleavage into the p20 and p10 subunits, are essential for activation and subsequent enzymatic activity, which drives inflammatory signaling and programmed cell death. The structural integrity and regulation of caspase-1 through these modifications are vital for maintaining cellular homeostasis and responding to pathological stimuli. Dysregulation of caspase-1 activity has been implicated in various diseases, including chronic inflammation, septic shock, impaired wound healing, and certain leukemias, highlighting significance in both normal physiology and disease mechanisms.