
BACE1 (Beta-site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1)
BACE1 (Beta-site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1) is an enzyme in the brain that plays a key role in producing amyloid beta proteins. These proteins can accumulate and form plaques, which are associated with Alzheimer's disease. BACE1 cuts the amyloid precursor protein (APP) at specific points, triggering the formation of amyloid beta. Because of this, BACE1 is a target for research aimed at developing treatments to reduce plaque formation and potentially slow or prevent Alzheimer's disease progression. Understanding and controlling BACE1 activity is important in efforts to combat neurodegenerative disorders.