Molecular cloning of cDNA for the 29 kDa proteinase participating in decomposition of the larval fat body during metamorphosis of <i>Sarcophaga peregrina</i> (flesh fly)

Abstract

A cDNA clone for the 29 kDa proteinase participating in tissue disintegration during metamorphosis of Sarcophaga was isolated. This proteinase, named Sarcophaga cathepsin B, consisted of 256 amino acid residues, and contained three putative N-glycosylation sites. By comparison with other cathepsins B, its unique substrate specificity was partly explained by Ala at position 248.