Late cornified envelope protein 3C (LCE3C)

Late cornified envelope protein 3C (LCE3C) is a structural component of the cornified envelope in the stratum corneum, encoded within the epidermal differentiation complex on chromosome 1q21[4][5][6]. It participates in skin barrier formation and repair, keratinocyte differentiation, and exhibits innate antimicrobial activity against a range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria[4][5][6]. LCE3C is implicated in host defense mechanisms and maintaining cutaneous integrity. Genetic deletion (LCE3C_LCE3B-del) is associated with increased risk for psoriasis and allergic contact dermatitis, likely by compromising the physical skin barrier and facilitating environmental allergen and pathogen penetration[1][3][4]. Its physiological role centers on skin structure and immunity rather than signaling or cell regulation, and it is not considered a conventional therapeutic drug target.

Other names

Late cornified envelope 3CLEP15SPRL3ALate envelope protein 15Small proline-rich-like epidermal differentiation complex protein 3ALCE3Clate envelope protein 15late cornified envelope protein 3Csmall proline rich-like (epidermal differentiation complex) 3Asmall proline-rich-like epidermal differentiation complex protein 3A