Protein Degradation

Protein degradation is the process by which cells break down

proteins that are no longer needed or are damaged. Protein
degradation occurs in cells through the action of proteases, which
are enzymes that hydrolyze the peptide bonds between amino acids.
Protein degradation occurs in several different cellular
compartments, including the cytosol, lysosomes, and proteasomes.
Proteasomes are specialized protein degradation complexes
found in eukaryotic cells. They contain a barrel-shaped
structure with a central channel that is lined with protease
subunits. Proteins that are targeted for degradation are first
ubiquitinated, which marks them for degradation by the
proteasomes. The proteasomes then cleave the marked
proteins into smaller peptides, which are then further
degraded into individual amino acids.
Protein degradation is an important process in cells because it
helps to maintain protein homeostasis, which is the balance
between protein synthesis and degradation. It is also important
for the regulation of various cellular processes, such as cell
cycle progression and signaling pathways. Dysregulation of
protein degradation can lead to various diseases, such as cancer
and neurodegenerative disorders.