Late cornified envelope protein 1E (LCE1E)

Late cornified envelope protein 1E (LCE1E) is a structurally specialized protein found in the upper layers of the epidermis, where it becomes covalently cross-linked to other proteins during the final stages of keratinocyte terminal differentiation, forming the cornified cell envelope[1][2]. LCE1E is a member of the LCE1 family, encoded within the epidermal differentiation complex on chromosome 1q21. Its expression is induced late in epidermal maturation, and it is incorporated into the cornified envelope via transglutaminase-mediated cross-linking, contributing to the mechanical resilience and barrier properties of the skin[1][2]. While not itself a therapeutic target, LCE1E and related late cornified envelope proteins play a compensatory role when other barrier proteins such as loricrin are absent, and their abnormal regulation has been implicated in the pathophysiology of skin barrier defects[1]. There are no known drug interactions, direct mechanistic actions, or established biomarker or safety concerns associated with LCE1E.

Other names

Late cornified envelope 1ELEP5Late envelope protein 5late cornified envelope protein 1Elate envelope protein 5