Late cornified envelope protein 3A (LCE3A)

Late cornified envelope protein 3A (LCE3A) is a small, cationic, cysteine-rich protein encoded by the LCE3A gene on chromosome 1q21.3 and is a structural component of the cornified envelope in the stratum corneum of the skin[4][5]. While its physiological function was initially unclear, recent research demonstrates that LCE3A has defensin-like antimicrobial properties, acting against various Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria at low micromolar concentrations[2][4][5][6]. LCE3A expression is strongly upregulated in individuals with a psoriasis-associated deletion of neighboring genes LCE3B and LCE3C, linking it genetically to psoriasis risk[2][4]. LCE3A thereby contributes both to the physical barrier function of the epidermis and cutaneous innate immunity, likely shaping the skin's microbial environment. LCE3A is not known to be a direct target of any pharmacological agents and is not currently considered a classic therapeutic target such as a receptor or enzyme[2][4][5][6][7].

Other names

Late envelope protein 13LEP13late cornified envelope 3ALCE3A