Molecular Cell (2020) 77(5): 927-929

Classification and nomenclature of metacaspases and paracaspases: no more confusion with caspases

Minina, E.A.; Staal, J.; Alvarez, V.E.; Berges, J.A.; Berman-Frank, I.; Beyaert, R.; Bidle, K.D.; Bornancin, F.; Casanova, M. et al.

Research on meta- and paracaspases is currently undergoing exponential growth revealing more and more important biological functions of these proteases, the trend reminiscent of the caspase field some 15-20 years back. However, while caspases are found only in animals, meta- and paracaspases span all kingdoms of life, attracting a broad spectrum of interest within life sciences and biomedicine. This is actually reflected very well in the list of authors for this paper that includes more than 40 principal investigators studying different aspects of meta- and/or paracaspases in various organisms, from bacteria to plants and mammals.

The new classification and unified nomenclature of meta- and paracaspases is a timely and necessary set of guidelines which are sensible and easy to follow. In particular, this paper will streamline annotation of increasing number of homologs that will in turn facilitate exchange of relevant findings within scientific community. Furthermore, this paper is an efficient remedy against widespread confusion of meta- and paracaspases with caspases and misuse of caspase probes for studying meta- and paracaspases that inevitably leads to false conclusions.