Calpain

Calpains are enzymes belonging to the family of calcium-dependent cysteine proteases. Calpains are believed to play a role in the cell cycle and cell mobility. Cell type-specific functions have also been implicated, such as in neurons. Calpain activation can be triggered by signals including calcium influx and oxidative stress. There are many isoforms of calpains, including Calpain 1 (CAPN1), Calpain 2 (CAPN2) and Calpain 7 (CAPN 7). Calpain I and II are heterodimeric with distinct large subunits associated with common small subunits. Calpains have been associated with disease conditions such as muscular dystrophy, diabetes mellitus, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease. Calpain inhibition is being explored as a therapeutic treatment for conditions such as ischemia. Visit the supplier page for more product information, including units of enzyme activity.