Definition:

Thiol protease that acts as a major effector caspase involved in the execution phase of apoptosis. Following cleavage and activation by initiator caspases (CASP8, CASP9 and/or CASP10), mediates execution of apoptosis by catalyzing cleavage of many proteins. At the onset of apoptosis, it proteolytically cleaves poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase PARP1 at a '216-Asp-|-Gly-217' bond. Cleaves and activates sterol regulatory element binding proteins (SREBPs) between the basic helix-loop-helix leucine zipper domain and the membrane attachment domain (By similarity). Cleaves and activates caspase-6, -7 and -9. Involved in the cleavage of huntingtin. Triggers cell adhesion in sympathetic neurons through RET cleavage. Cleaves and inhibits serine/threonine-protein kinase AKT1 in response to oxidative stress. Acts as an inhibitor of type I interferon production during virus-induced apoptosis by mediating cleavage of antiviral proteins CGAS, IRF3 and MAVS, thereby preventing cytokine overproduction. Also involved in pyroptosis by mediating cleavage and activation of gasdermin-E (GSDME). Cleaves XRCC4 and phospholipid scramblase proteins XKR4, XKR8 and XKR9, leading to promote phosphatidylserine exposure on apoptotic cell surface.