Caspases, Initiator

**Definition:** A subtype of caspases that contain long pro-domain regions that regulate the activation of the enzyme. The pro-domain regions contain protein-protein interaction motifs that can interact with specific signaling adaptor proteins such as DEATH DOMAIN RECEPTORS; DED SIGNALING ADAPTOR PROTEINS; and CARD SIGNALING ADAPTOR PROTEINS. Once activated, the initiator caspases can activate other caspases such as the EFFECTOR CASPASES.

**Tree numbers:** - D08.811.277.656.262.500.126.550 - D08.811.277.656.300.200.126.550 - D12.776.476.075.405.550

**Synonyms:** - Initiator Caspases