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Carbonic anhydrase XIII
1NEUROFARBA Department, Pharmaceutical and Nutraceutical Section, University of Florence, Sesto Fiorentino, Firenze, Italy.
The Enzymes
|July 22, 2026
Summary
Carbonic anhydrase XIII (CA XIII) is a cytosolic enzyme with moderate activity, widely expressed in human tissues. Its roles in health and disease, including cancer, are emerging, with potential as a drug target.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Enzymology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Carbonic anhydrase XIII (CA XIII) is a cytosolic α-carbonic anhydrase identified in 2004.
- It possesses conserved structural and catalytic features, moderate catalytic activity, and distinct proton transfer dynamics.
- CA XIII is broadly expressed in human tissues, particularly epithelial and reproductive systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the characterized features of Carbonic anhydrase XIII.
- To explore its physiological roles and involvement in pathological processes.
- To discuss its potential as a target for drug design.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of published studies on CA XIII.
- Analysis of gene organization, protein structure, catalytic mechanisms, and inhibition profiles.
- Synthesis of evidence linking CA XIII to various physiological and pathological conditions.
Main Results:
- CA XIII exhibits moderate catalytic efficiency due to unique proton transfer dynamics.
- It is widely expressed, suggesting roles in pH regulation, bicarbonate metabolism, and homeostasis.
- Evidence links CA XIII to colorectal cancer (downregulation), breast cancer (tumor suppression), and acute myeloid leukemia (context-dependent roles).
- Associations with inflammation, aging, and cognition suggest broader biological relevance.
Conclusions:
- CA XIII's physiological function requires further elucidation.
- Its involvement in diverse pathologies highlights its clinical significance.
- CA XIII is a potential target for isozyme-selective drug development, though in vivo models are needed.
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