Human WAP, kazal, immunoglobulin, kunitz and NTR domain-containing protein 2 (WFIKKN2) Protein

Background

WAP follistatin/kazal immunoglobulin kunitz and netrin domain containing 2 (WFIKKN2) shares structural and functional similarities with WFIKKN1, including its role as a protease inhibitor and regulator of extracellular matrix dynamics. It is particularly known for its interaction with growth differentiation factors such as GDF8 (myostatin) and GDF11, inhibiting their activity and contributing to the regulation of muscle and skeletal growth. WFIKKN2 is expressed in various tissues, including the liver, kidney, and skeletal muscle, and plays a crucial role in maintaining tissue homeostasis by modulating protease activity during processes like inflammation, repair, and cellular migration. In cancer biology, WFIKKN2 has been implicated in controlling tumor progression and metastasis by influencing proteolytic activity in the tumor microenvironment. Additionally, WFIKKN2 has potential therapeutic applications in metabolic and degenerative disorders due to its regulatory effects on signaling pathways associated with growth differentiation factors. The interplay between WFIKKN2 and other extracellular molecules continues to be a focus of study, with particular interest in its potential to serve as a biomarker or therapeutic target in diseases characterized by abnormal proteolysis or tissue remodeling.