26S proteasome

The 26S proteasome is a complex protein machine within cells that helps regulate protein levels by degrading unneeded, damaged, or misfolded proteins. It recognizes target proteins tagged with a small marker called ubiquitin, then unfolds and breaks them down into basic building blocks called amino acids. These amino acids can then be reused to build new proteins or provide energy for the cell. The 26S proteasome is essential for maintaining cellular health, controlling protein quality, and regulating various biological processes, including cell cycle and immune response.