Protease Enzyme in Industrial Applications

Proteolysis is an irreversible posttranslational modification affecting each and every protein from its biosynthesis to its degradation. Limited proteolysis regulates targeting and activity throughout the lifetime of proteins. Balancing proteolysis is therefore crucial for physiological homeostasis. Control mechanisms include proteolytic maturation of zymogens resulting in active proteases and the shut down of proteolysis by counteracting endogenous protease inhibitors. Beyond the protein level proteolytic enzymes are involved in key decisions during development that determine life and death – from single cells to adult individuals. In particular we are becoming aware of the subtle role that proteases play in signaling events within proteolysis networks in which the enzymes act synergistically and form alliances in a web-like fashion. Proteases come in different flavors. This book reflects the efforts of many in this exciting field of research where team and network formations are essential to move ahead.