CELA2A

CELA2A, or Chymotrypsin-like elastase family member 2A, is an enzyme primarily produced in the pancreas. It functions as a circulating enzyme with diverse physiological roles, including reducing platelet hyperactivation, initiating both insulin secretion and degradation, and enhancing insulin sensitivity. Mutations in the CELA2A gene have been identified as predisposing factors for early-onset atherosclerosis and metabolic syndrome, positioning CELA2A as a potential therapeutic target for these conditions. Its plasma levels are observed to rise postprandially, correlating with insulin levels in humans. Furthermore, CELA2A's expression and regulation are implicated in various pathologies, such as ulcerative colitis, hepatic alveolar echinococcosis, gastric epithelial dysplasia, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, and type 2 diabetes. Genetically predicted elevated levels of CELA2A have also been associated with protection against Alzheimer's disease, and regulatory variants in its promoter region have been linked to substance use disorders.

Other names

Chymotrypsin-like elastase family member 2Apancreatic elastase