Lysyl oxidase homolog 3 (LOXL3)

Lysyl oxidase homolog 3 (LOXL3) is a copper-dependent amine oxidase enzyme encoded by the *LOXL3* gene; it mediates the oxidative deamination of peptidyl lysine residues in collagen and elastin, forming allysine that enables cross-linking, essential for the biomechanical strength of connective tissues[1][2][4][6]. Beyond extracellular matrix synthesis, LOXL3 has roles in development, cell signaling, immune regulation (via STAT3 interaction), and genome stability. Mutations can cause Stickler syndrome and other connective tissue disorders. LOXL3 is upregulated in some cancers, contributing to progression and metastasis via epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and DNA damage response modulation, making it a therapeutic target for cancer and fibrosis[2][5]. Knockout/interference studies highlight its essential nature for both tissue homeostasis and embryogenesis, indicating therapeutic targeting must balance efficacy and safety. No LOXL3-specific clinical drugs exist yet, but broad LOX/LOXL family inhibitors are in experimental stages[2][5][3][6].

Other names

Lysyl oxidase like 3Lysyl oxidase-like protein 3LOXLMYP28LOXL3-sv1LOXL3-sv2Lysyl oxidase homolog 3

Enzyme inhibition: Molecules like BAPN act as irreversible inhibitors of LOXL3’s amine oxidase activity, preventing the cross-linking of collagen and elastin. Targeting ECM remodeling: LOXL3 inhibitors are under research for blocking fibrosis and cancer metastasis by interfering with extracellular matrix maturation and related signaling pathways.