Beta-secretase, antibodies to beta-secretase, and assays for detecting beta-secretase inhibition

摘要

Compositions comprising a novel protease capable of cleaving beta -amyloid precursor protein (APP) on the amino-terminal side of the beta -amyloid peptide therein are provided. The protease is designated beta -secretase. Reaction systems comprising beta -secretase may be used in screening assays to monitor beta -secretase modulated cleavage of APP and to identify beta -secretase inhibitors, wherein the beta -secretase is in the presence of a suitable polypeptide substrate and cleavage of the substrate determined in the presence and absence of the test substance. Antibodies are raised against peptides of beta -secretase. Pharmaceutical compositions and methods comprise compounds identified by screening assays.