Serine protease 21 (PRSS21)

Serine protease 21 (PRSS21, also known as testisin) is a cell-surface anchored serine protease and a member of the trypsin family of serine endopeptidases[3][4]. The protein catalyzes the hydrolysis of peptide bonds, preferentially at lysine or arginine residues, using a characteristic catalytic triad (His, Asp, Ser)[1]. It predominantly localizes to the cytoplasm and plasma membrane of premeiotic testicular germ cells, and experimental evidence implicates a role in germ cell maturation and progression of certain testicular tumors[3]. Disorders associated with PRSS21 include testicular cancer and inflammatory bowel disease 12[3]. No drugs are currently documented to target PRSS21 directly. Its canonical enzymatic activity and localization suggest it may serve as a marker or future therapeutic target related to testis biology and select cancers[3][4].

Other names

TESTTestisinSerine protease 21PRSS21

Serine-type endopeptidase activity (inhibition or modulation of enzymatic activity could underlie pharmacological strategies)