KLK7
Description
The KLK7 (kallikrein related peptidase 7) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 19.
KLK7 is a protein-cutting enzyme (serine protease) produced by the KLK7 gene. It was first found in the outer layer of skin (stratum corneum) and is one of fifteen related proteases in the human kallikrein family. The KLK7 gene can create two slightly different versions of the protein, but both have the same function. KLK7 starts out inactive in the skin and needs to be activated by other enzymes, like KLK5 or matriptase. Once active, KLK7 breaks down two key proteins, desmocollin and corneodesmosin, which hold skin cells together. This breakdown allows the outer layer of skin to shed, which is essential for healthy skin.
KLK7 plays a crucial role in skin shedding (desquamation) by breaking down the glue-like proteins that hold skin cells together in the outer layer. It specifically targets proteins with aromatic amino acids in a particular position, and it's known to cleave insulin at specific sites. KLK7 might also be involved in activating molecules that trigger inflammation.
KLK7 is also known as PRSS6, SCCE, hK7.
