Abstract: Disclosed is a DNA sequence containing a DNA segment coding for Achromobacter protease I (API) or variants thereof (referred to as T-API); a recombinant DNA constructed by introducing the DNA sequence in an expression vector so as to express the T-API; a transformant bearing the recombinant DNA; a process for producing the API which comprises cultivating the transformant, accumulating the T-API in a culture product, and recovering the same: and a protein of T-API. The cells transfected or transformed with the DNA sequence of the present invention allow for the production of a large amount of precursor protein of the T-API or the mature peptide.

Abstract: The subject invention describes the cloning and overexpression of leader peptidase genes. A method for isolating a leader peptidase gene is disclosed. Overexpression of the signal peptidase in a suitable host species leads to an enhanced rate of protein processing.

Abstract: The present invention provides a recombinant DNA comprised of a vector DNA and a DNA fragment containing a gene coding for .gamma.-glutamyl transpeptidase derived from Bacillus subtilis. The invention also provides a process for producing .gamma.-glutamyl transpeptidase, which comprises culturing in a culture medium a microorganism belonging to the genus Bacillus which is carrying recombinant DNA comprised of a vector DNA and DNA fragment which contains a gene coding for .gamma.-glutamyl transpeptidase derived from the genus Bacillus, accumulating .gamma.-glutamyl transpeptidase in the culture, and recovering .gamma.-glutamyl transpeptidase therefrom.