Intestinal aspartate proteases TiCatD and TiCatD2 of the haematophagous bug Triatoma infestans (Reduviidae): Sequence characterisation, expression pattern and characterisation of proteolytic activity

► In Triatoma infestans, intestinal proteases TiCatD and TiCatD2 were characterized. ► Only expression of TiCatD is induced immediately and strongly after feeding. ► Mass spectrometry identified both proteases in the lumen of the small intestine. ► Activity of purified aspartate proteases is highest at pH 2-4. ► Intestinal pH varies in correlation with time after feeding between pH 5.2 and 6.7.