Kazrin, periplakin interacting protein (KAZN)

Kazrin, periplakin interacting protein (KAZN), is an evolutionarily conserved cytoplasmic protein that plays integral roles in epithelial tissue biology, particularly by modulating cell–cell adhesion, structural organization of the cytoskeleton, and differentiation. It associates with members of the plakin family—most notably periplakin and desmoplakin—and is fundamental in assembling desmosomes and the cornified envelope essential for maintaining tissue integrity and barrier function. Kazrin is expressed in all layers of stratified squamous epithelia, localizing to the nucleus, desmosomes, cell membrane, and cortical actin-based structures. Functional studies have revealed its importance in controlling cell morphology, junction assembly, and apoptosis, especially via Rho GTPase and interactions with apoptotic regulators in certain isoforms. Disease associations include roles in carcinogenesis, transcriptional regulation, and inflammatory response regulation. The gene produces multiple isoforms through alternative splicing, and although Kazrin is implicated in disease contexts, it is not currently considered a direct pharmacological target or clinical biomarker[4][5][1][3][2].

Other names

KAZNC1orf196KIAA1026KAZHRIHFB2003FLJ43806KAZRINliprin-gamma (rare, potentially ambiguous)