Kallikrein-2

Kallikrein-2 (KLK2) is a serine protease enzyme encoded by the KLK2 gene in humans. It is part of the kallikrein family of enzymes, which are involved in the breakdown of proteins in the body. Kallikrein-2 is primarily expressed in the prostate gland, and its activity is regulated by hormones and other factors.

Function

Kallikrein-2 is involved in various physiological and pathological processes. It plays a crucial role in the activation of prostate-specific antigen (PSA), a protein that is often elevated in the blood of men with prostate cancer. Kallikrein-2 can also activate other kallikreins, contributing to a cascade of proteolytic reactions.

Clinical significance

Due to its association with PSA, kallikrein-2 has been studied as a potential biomarker for prostate cancer. Some studies suggest that measuring kallikrein-2 levels in the blood may improve the accuracy of prostate cancer screening and prognosis. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings and to understand the exact role of kallikrein-2 in prostate cancer development and progression.

See also

• Kallikrein
• Prostate-specific antigen
• Prostate cancer

External links

• KLK2 gene at NCBI
• Kallikrein-2 at UniProt