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Proteases play a crucial role in cellular regulation by breaking down proteins, including those involved in key processes such as cell signaling and apoptosis. This proteolytic activity allows for the selective degradation of proteins that are no longer needed or that need to be regulated in response to various cellular conditions.

By cleaving specific peptides, proteases can activate or deactivate signaling pathways, thereby influencing numerous cellular functions such as growth, differentiation, and programmed cell death. For instance, during apoptosis, certain proteases facilitate the dismantling of cellular components, ensuring that the cell undergoes controlled destruction. This regulation is vital for maintaining homeostasis and responding to cellular stressors.

The other functions listed in the choices pertain to distinct cellular mechanisms but do not capture the primary role of proteases. While DNA repair, protein synthesis, and promoting growth are all important for cellular function, they are not the direct actions of proteases. Instead, proteases are specifically recognized for their ability to modulate protein levels and activity, making their breakdown of signaling proteins and apoptosis-related factors a central aspect of their regulatory function in cells.