CEP1 — Asparagus officinalis

Summary

A4U43_C01F25500, designated AoCEP1 in asparagus (Asparagus officinalis) on chromosome 1, encodes a cathepsin propeptide inhibitor domain-containing protein with thiol endopeptidase activity and cysteine-type peptidase activity, belonging to the papain-like cysteine peptidase superfamily (peptidase C1A family). The gene is associated with proteolysis, leaf senescence, and programmed cell death involved in cell development. It has been linked to responses to the hormones gibberellin, ethylene, and abscisic acid, as well as to NO storage. The encoded protein localises to senescence-associated vacuoles, lysosomes, and the extracellular space. Studies of related genes in other species connect the family to additional proteolytic functions.