1. A calcium-dependent protease enzyme found in cells that breaks down proteins; involved in cell signaling, muscle contraction, and cell death processes.
Usage: technical; biochemistry; molecular biology

Examples

• Calpain plays a crucial role in regulating muscle contraction by cleaving specific proteins.
• Researchers study calpain activity to understand neurodegenerative diseases.
• The enzyme calpain is activated when calcium levels rise inside the cell.
• Abnormal calpain function has been linked to Alzheimer's disease progression.
• Calpain inhibitors are being investigated as potential therapeutic agents.