Human Tissue Factor Pathway Inhibitor 2 (TFPI2) Protein

Background

Tissue Factor Pathway Inhibitor 2 (TFPI2), another Kunitz-type inhibitor, is structurally similar to TFPI but exhibits distinct functions, primarily inhibiting plasmin and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). TFPI2 plays a critical role in modulating extracellular matrix degradation, cell migration, and angiogenesis, influencing processes like wound healing, tissue remodeling, and tumor progression. Unlike TFPI, TFPI2 is broadly expressed in various tissues and is frequently downregulated in cancers, where its loss contributes to tumor invasion, metastasis, and angiogenesis. Its epigenetic silencing through promoter hypermethylation is a hallmark in several malignancies, highlighting its potential as a tumor suppressor and biomarker for cancer diagnosis and prognosis.