SPP/SPPL in vitro cleavage
The representatives of the SPP/SPPL protease family are intramembrane aspartyl proteases, which, similar to presinilins, cleave their transmembrane substrates within the hydrophobic membrane regions and are involved in various pathophysiological processes. However, identifying substrates and understanding cleavage mechanisms are major challenges.
Therefore, our goal is to develop assay systems that allow in vitro characterization of the SPP/SPPL proteases and enable unrestricted investigation of substrate recognition and enzymatic kinetics. In the future, these assay systems will contribute to the identification of complex partners, the confirmation of substrates, mutagenesis studies and the characterization of inhibitors. This will help to decipher complex molecular interactions, advance drug development, and promote a comprehensive understanding of enzyme functions in a controlled environment.
Funding
Intramural Research Funding, project funding, Medical faculty of the University of Augsburg – Funding since 2023