Anti-SPINK4 antibody [EPR12492]

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

SPINK4 also known as Serine Peptidase Inhibitor Kazal-Type 4 functions as a protease inhibitor. It encodes a protein with a molecular mass of approximately 18 kDa. SPINK4 specifically inhibits certain serine proteases by forming stable complexes which prevents the proteases from degrading other proteins. It shows high expression in intestinal tissues particularly in the small intestine suggesting an important role in the digestive tract environment.

Biological function summary

SPINK4 modulates protease activity to maintain tissue homeostasis especially in the gut. This inhibitor regulates the activity of digestive enzymes ensuring controlled protein digestion and absorption. SPINK4 does not seem to be a part of a larger protein complex but acts individually to execute its inhibitory function. The precise control it gives helps maintain a balance between tissue protection and nutrient processing.

Pathways

SPINK4 engages in pathways related to protease inhibition in the gastrointestinal tract. It interacts closely with trypsin and other serine proteases to limit their proteolytic damage. SPINK4 is important in the protease-antiprotease pathway where it modulates enzyme activity to protect tissue from excessive protease action. This regulation is key in maintaining epithelial barrier integrity and efficient nutrient processing.

Associated diseases and disorders

SPINK4 has potential links to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and colorectal cancer. Inflammatory conditions may result from imbalanced protease activity if SPINK4's regulatory function is disrupted. Conditions like IBD can see increased intestinal permeability where SPINK4 may be unable to adequately inhibit proteases contributing to tissue damage. Additionally correlations exist between SPINK4 expression and tumor progression possibly through interactions with cancer-related proteases like uPA (urokinase plasminogen activator) involved in tissue invasion.