TNF Alpha ICE Proteinases

**Semantic type:** Enzyme

**Definition:** Tightly regulated and activated by proteolysis, TNF Alpha ICE Proteinases (ICE/CED3/Caspase Family, MEROPS C14 Peptidase Family) are Cysteine-dependent ASPartyl-specific proteASE (Caspases) effectors (active alpha2/beta2-tetrameric enzymes) of the extrinsic apoptosis cascade, induced by TNF cytokine stimulation of cell surface TNF receptors. By promoting a death-inducing signaling complex (DISC) between recruited FADD and caspase-8, activated receptors transmit signal to the cytoplasm and caspase-8 activation initiates an apoptosis cascade involving caspases 3, 4, 6, 7, 9 and 10 that destroys the cell by disintegrating its contents, including its DNA. The Caspase Family includes Caspases 1-14, ced-3 and Drosophila Ice.