Whey acidic protein four-disulfide core domain protein 12 (WFDC12)

Whey acidic protein four-disulfide core domain protein 12 (WFDC12) is a member of the whey acidic protein (WAP) family, specifically characterized by the presence of a four-disulfide core domain. It is a small secreted protein mainly expressed in differentiated keratinocytes in the outermost layer of the epidermis[2]. WFDC12 displays inhibitory activity against serine proteases, such as neutrophil elastase and epidermal kallikrein-related peptidases, contributing to the regulation of protease activity in the skin's stratum corneum[2][3]. WFDC12 also shows immunomodulatory effects, such as inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokine release from monocytes upon stimulation[3]. Expression of WFDC12 is markedly elevated in inflammatory skin diseases including psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, Darier disease, and Netherton syndrome[1][2][3]. Functional studies implicate WFDC12 in the regulation of skin immune responses and keratinocyte homeostasis, as well as in the modulation of lipid metabolism and the retinoic acid pathway during skin inflammation and disease progression[1][3]. WFDC12 is not currently known as a direct therapeutic target for any drugs, nor are there reported safety concerns associated with its modulation[3].

Other names

C20orf122WAP2UNQ544/PRO844dJ211D12.4Putative protease inhibitor WAP12Single WAP motif protein 2Whey acidic protein 2SWAM2protease inhibitor WAP2putative protease inhibitor WAP12