abstract |
(57) [Summary]nThe present invention relates to a nucleic acid encoding caspase-12, a protein encoded by the casp-12 nucleic acid, a vector, and a host transformed with the vector. Caspase-12 is a member of the caspase family, which also includes the mammalian interleukin-1 beta converting enzyme (ICE). Caspases are thought to perform the apoptotic executive stage in a cascade of proteolytic events. The present invention also relates to the use of caspase-12 to induce programmed cell death. |