KLK12

Kallikrein-related peptidase 11 (KLK11) is a member of the kallikrein subfamily of serine proteases, which are enzymes that cleave peptide bonds in proteins. KLK11 is encoded by the KLK11 gene located on chromosome 19q13.3-13.4, a region that contains a cluster of 15 kallikrein genes.

Structure

The KLK11 gene is composed of 7 exons and encodes a preproprotein that is processed to generate the mature enzyme. The mature KLK11 protein consists of 250 amino acids and has a molecular weight of approximately 28 kDa. Like other kallikreins, KLK11 contains a catalytic triad composed of histidine, aspartate, and serine residues, which are essential for its proteolytic activity.

Function

KLK11 is involved in various physiological processes, including skin desquamation, semen liquefaction, and neural plasticity. It is expressed in a wide range of tissues, with particularly high levels in the prostate, brain, and skin. In the prostate, KLK11 is thought to play a role in semen liquefaction by cleaving semenogelins, which are proteins that form the gel matrix of semen.

Clinical Significance

KLK11 has been studied as a potential biomarker for prostate cancer and other malignancies. Elevated levels of KLK11 have been detected in the serum of patients with prostate cancer, suggesting its potential use in cancer diagnosis and monitoring. Additionally, KLK11 expression has been observed in ovarian, breast, and other cancers, indicating its broader relevance in oncology.

Regulation

The expression of KLK11 is regulated by steroid hormones, including androgens and estrogens. This regulation is mediated through hormone response elements in the promoter region of the KLK11 gene. The precise mechanisms of KLK11 regulation and its interaction with other kallikreins remain active areas of research.

Research Directions

Ongoing research is focused on understanding the role of KLK11 in cancer progression and its potential as a therapeutic target. Studies are also exploring the enzyme's function in the central nervous system and its involvement in neurodegenerative diseases.

Also see

• Kallikrein
• Prostate cancer
• Serine protease
• Biomarker