Tissue factor pathway inhibitor 2: Current understanding, challenges, and future perspectives

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Oncology
• Reproductive Medicine

Background:

• Tissue factor pathway inhibitor 2 (TFPI2) is structurally similar to TFPI1.
• TFPI2, a placenta-derived protein, has dynamic changes linked to pregnancy complications.
• TFPI2 is emerging as a potential serum biomarker for ovarian cancer, particularly clear cell carcinoma (CCC).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the biological functions of TFPI2.
• To identify current challenges in TFPI2 research.
• To discuss future research directions for TFPI2.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of papers published up to March 31, 2023.
• Inclusion of studies from PubMed and Google Scholar databases.
• Synthesis of existing knowledge with novel complementary information on TFPI2 action.

Main Results:

• TFPI2 concentration variations in pregnant women, preeclampsia, and cancer patients highlight its pathophysiological relevance.
• TFPI2 downregulation via hypermethylation may promote cancer progression; conversely, TFPI2 overexpression in CCC is linked to thrombosis risk.
• Significant discrepancies exist regarding TFPI2's biological functions, necessitating further investigation.

Conclusions:

• Current understanding of TFPI2 is summarized, emphasizing existing knowledge gaps.
• Challenges in TFPI2 research, including lack of standardized quantification methods, are highlighted.
• Future research should focus on clarifying TFPI2's roles and establishing standardized measurement techniques.