Skin-specific protein 32 (KPLCE)

Skin-specific protein 32 (encoded by the C1orf68 gene, also known as KPLCE) is a small cytoplasmic protein specifically expressed in the suprabasal keratinocytes of the skin, with moderate abundance also noted in breast tissue[1]. It plays a role within the epidermal differentiation complex and is implicated in epidermal cornification and the formation and maintenance of the skin barrier[1]. The protein contains a DNA translocase FtsK domain, notable for a cysteine-rich repeat region conserved across mammals[1]. No established drug interactions, therapeutic targeting, or biomarker use is known. KPLCE interacts with proteins involved in the keratinocyte differentiation and epidermal cornified envelope (e.g., keratinocyte proline-rich protein, transglutaminase 3, CYLD)[1]. Presently, its primary recognized function is related to epithelial cell maturation and terminal differentiation, with no direct link to human disease or established therapeutic target status[1][3].

Other names

C1orf68LEP7XP32KPRP N-terminal and LCE C-terminal-like proteinskin-specific protein (XP32)