CK20

Overview of CK20 in medical science

Cytokeratin 20 (CK20) is a type of keratin protein that is primarily expressed in the epithelial cells of the gastrointestinal tract, urothelium, and Merkel cells. It is encoded by the KRT20 gene located on chromosome 17q21.2. CK20 is a member of the type I (acidic) cytokeratin family and plays a crucial role in the structural integrity and function of epithelial cells.

Structure and Function

CK20 is a low molecular weight cytokeratin that forms intermediate filaments in epithelial cells. These filaments provide mechanical support and help maintain cell shape and stability. CK20 is involved in cellular processes such as cell differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis.

Expression Patterns

CK20 is predominantly expressed in the epithelial cells of the gastrointestinal tract, including the stomach, small intestine, and colon. It is also found in the urothelium of the bladder and in Merkel cells of the skin. The expression of CK20 is often used as a diagnostic marker in pathology to identify certain types of carcinomas.

Clinical Significance

CK20 is widely used as a tumor marker in the diagnosis and classification of various cancers. It is particularly useful in distinguishing between colorectal cancer and other types of adenocarcinomas. CK20 is often used in conjunction with CK7, another cytokeratin, to help differentiate between different types of epithelial tumors.

Diagnostic Use

In immunohistochemistry, CK20 is used to:

• Identify colorectal carcinoma: CK20 is typically positive in colorectal cancer cells.
• Differentiate urothelial carcinoma: CK20 is often expressed in urothelial carcinoma, aiding in its diagnosis.
• Distinguish Merkel cell carcinoma: CK20 is a marker for Merkel cell carcinoma, a rare type of skin cancer.

Research and Future Directions

Ongoing research is exploring the role of CK20 in cancer progression and its potential as a therapeutic target. Studies are investigating the molecular mechanisms by which CK20 contributes to tumorigenesis and how it can be used to improve cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Also see

• Cytokeratin 7
• Intermediate filaments
• Tumor markers
• Immunohistochemistry

Resources

Latest articles - CK20

• Most recent articles
• Ongoing trials

Source: Data courtesy of the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Since the data might have changed, please query MeSH on CK20 for any updates.

‎