asp-3 encodes an aspartyl protease homolog that is required, in parallel with ASP-4 but downstream of CLP-1 and TRA-3, for degenerative (necrotic-like) cell death in neurons induced by mutations such as mec-4(d), deg-3(d), or gsa-1(gf).
Predicted to enable aspartic-type endopeptidase activity. Involved in programmed necrotic cell death. Located in lysosome. Expressed in intestine and uterus. Is an ortholog of human NAPSA (napsin A aspartic peptidase).