Serpin peptidase inhibitor clade B member 12 (SERPINB12)

SERPINB12 (serpin peptidase inhibitor, clade B [ovalbumin], member 12) is a broadly expressed, intracellular protease inhibitor of the serpin superfamily, with highest expression in epithelial tissues and cells exposed to the external environment (e.g., lung, gastrointestinal tract, reproductive tract, and skin)[1][3]. Its main biological function is the inhibition of trypsin-like serine proteases (e.g., granzyme A, hepsin, trypsin, plasmin), thereby protecting cells and tissues from protease-mediated injury and maintaining barrier integrity[1][3]. Biochemical studies confirm it acts as a slow-binding protease inhibitor, forming stable covalent complexes with its targets[1][3]. Beyond canonical protease inhibition, SERPINB12 may also have a role in transcriptional control and cell differentiation, by participating in multiprotein complexes such as those with hSLFN12[1]. However, it is not currently regarded as a druggable therapeutic target and there are no clinically approved drugs or biomarkers linked to it. Its wide tissue distribution and expression patterns suggest a fundamental cytoprotective function especially in epithelial cells, but direct clinical implications remain largely uncharacterized[1][3].

Other names

Serpin B12SERPINB12YukopinYUKOPINserine (or cysteine) proteinase inhibitor, clade B (ovalbumin), member 12serpin peptidase inhibitor, clade B (ovalbumin), member 12