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Kallikrein-related peptidases
1Department of Laboratory Medicine Malmö, Clinical Chemistry, Lund University, University Hospital MAS, Malmö, Sweden. Ake.Lundwall@med.lu.se
Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences : CMLS
|March 18, 2008
Summary
Kallikrein 1 (KLK1) and related peptidases play roles in reproduction and skin. Their evolution and use as cancer biomarkers are reviewed.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Genetics
- Evolutionary Biology
Background:
- Kallikrein 1 (KLK1) is part of the kallikrein-kinin system, located on chromosome 19.
- Kallikrein-related peptidases have diverse physiological roles, including in reproduction, skin, and neural development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evolution of kallikrein-related peptidases.
- To discuss their roles in skin homeostasis and semen liquefaction.
- To explore their utility as cancer biomarkers.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of kallikrein-related peptidases.
- Analysis of evolutionary events within the kallikrein locus.
- Examination of physiological functions and clinical applications.
Main Results:
- KLK1 and related genes have undergone significant evolutionary duplications, particularly in rodents.
- Human paralogs include KLK2 and KLK3 (prostate-specific antigen).
- These peptidases are implicated in skin homeostasis, semen liquefaction, and cancer biomarker development.
Conclusions:
- Kallikrein-related peptidases exhibit diverse evolutionary histories and functions.
- Their roles in physiological processes and disease warrant further investigation.
- KLK family members hold potential as diagnostic and prognostic cancer biomarkers.
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