Epidermal elastase 2 (ELA2)

Epidermal elastase 2 is a serine protease enzyme specifically expressed in the most differentiated layer of human and mouse epidermis. It plays a critical role in skin barrier function by participating directly in the processing of (pro-)filaggrin, an essential protein for skin hydration and structure. Overactivity or dysregulation of this enzyme has been implicated in the pathogenesis of Netherton syndrome, a genetic disorder characterized by severe skin scaling and impaired barrier function. As an epidermal protease, it is involved in essential pathways that maintain the balance between proteases and antiproteases necessary for healthy skin physiology.

Other names

Elastase 2ELA2Chymotrypsin-like elastase family member 2A (Cela2a)Epidermal protease