Ras and a-factor converting enzyme.

We have described several quantitative and qualitative assays that have been utilized to learn the basic properties of RACE and amphibian and mammalian counterparts. Owing to powerful genetic tractability, high specific activity, and an apparently well-conserved substrate specificity, yeast is an attractive organism in which to study RACE. Efforts are currently in progress to characterize the functional role of the endoproteolytic processing step of many essential proteins.