SPINK5 : serine peptidase inhibitor Kazal type 5
Description
The SPINK5 (serine peptidase inhibitor Kazal type 5) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 5.
The SPINK5 gene provides instructions for making a protein called LEKT1, a serine peptidase inhibitor that controls the activity of enzymes called serine peptidases. LEKT1 is found in the skin and thymus, a gland involved in immune system function by producing lymphocytes. LEKT1 regulates the activity of certain serine peptidases in the epidermis, especially in the stratum corneum, which acts as a barrier between the body and the environment. Serine peptidases are involved in skin shedding by breaking connections between stratum corneum cells. LEKT1 is also involved in hair growth, lymphocyte development in the thymus, and the control of peptidases that trigger immune system function.
SPINK5 inhibits the activity of several serine proteases, including KLK5, KLK7, KLK14, CASP14, and trypsin. It is thought to play a role in anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial protection of mucous epithelia, as well as maintaining the integrity and protective barrier function of the skin. The inhibition of KLK5, its major target, is pH-dependent.
SPINK5 is also known as LEKTI, LETKI, NETS, NS, VAKTI.
