Kallikrein-related peptidase 15 (KLK15)

Kallikrein-related peptidase 15 (KLK15) is a member of the kallikrein family of serine proteases, encoded by the KLK15 gene located on chromosome 19q13.4.[3][1][2] It is composed of five coding exons and has a predicted molecular weight of about 28 kDa.[1] KLK15 shares significant structural similarity with other kallikreins, especially KLK3 (prostate specific antigen, PSA), and can activate the precursor form of PSA by peptide cleavage.[1] KLK15 expression can be upregulated by androgens via the androgen receptor pathway, and possibly by progestins, especially in breast and prostate tissue.[1] Expression studies have identified KLK15 as an independent favorable prognostic marker in both prostate and breast cancers, with higher expression correlating with longer progression-free and overall survival in breast cancer.[1][5][3] The enzyme is predicted to have endopeptidase activity and is primarily secreted into the extracellular space.[4][6] KLK15 and the broader KLK family may serve as biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis and offer potential, but as yet unexploited, therapeutic targets for some hormone-responsive malignancies.[2][7][1] **Note:** - There is currently no established clinical drug targeting KLK15, nor any well-described safety concerns or adverse-effect profile. - The protein may also be referred to as "prostinogen" or "ACO protease" in the literature, but "Kallikrein-related peptidase 15 (KLK15)" is preferred for scientific accuracy.[3][1]

Other names

Kallikrein-15HSRNASPHACOprostinogenACO proteasekallikrein-like serine protease

Protease inhibition (for potential drugs; not clinically established, mechanism presumed by analogy to other KLKs)