Melanization is one of important modules in insect defense system. It consists of a cascade of clip-domain serine proteases (cSPs) that converts the zymogen prophenoloxidase (PPO) to active phenoloxidase (PO), which is negatively regulated by serpins. PO then catalyses the formation of melanin that physically encapsulates certain pathogens. Parasites and bacteria have evolved to produce specifi...
The N-end rule pathway is a proteasome dependent proteolytic system that recognizes and degrades proteins containing N-degrons, and has emerged as a key regulator of various processes. Viruses manipulate diverse host pathways to facilitate viral replication and evade antiviral defenses. However, it remains unclear if viral infection has any impact on the N-end rule pathway.
Prion protein (PrP) is a glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchored protein widely expressed in central nervous system, lymphoreticular system and GI tract. It has been attributed to neurodegenerative diseases such as prion disease and alzheimers disease. However, normal functions of PrP remains in-completely understood.
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a prevalent worldwide human pathogen that infects epithelial cells before it establishes latency in trigeminal or sacral nerve root ganglia, causing mucocutaneous lesions, keratitis, and encephalitis. The development of vaccines and novel therapeutic strategies against HSV has become very urgent.
