PRSS2

PRSS2 is a human gene that encodes serine protease 2, a member of the trypsin family of proteases. It is commonly referred to as trypsinogen-2, the pancreatic secretory form. The encoded protein is synthesized as an inactive zymogen by pancreatic acinar cells and secreted into the pancreatic duct. In the small intestine, trypsinogen-2 is activated by enteropeptidase (enterokinase) to form active trypsin-2, a serine protease that initiates proteolysis of dietary proteins and also activates other pancreatic zymogens, amplifying the digestive enzyme cascade.

Expression: PRSS2 is predominantly expressed in the pancreas, with lower levels in other tissues. Its activity is tightly regulated to prevent premature activation that could damage pancreatic tissue.

Clinical relevance: Variants and expression patterns of PRSS2 have been studied in relation to pancreatic disorders and cancer risk. However, the involvement of PRSS2 in hereditary pancreatitis is less clear than that of its paralog PRSS1, and findings across studies are not yet consistent. Abnormal PRSS2 expression or activity may contribute to inflammatory or proteolytic processes in the pancreas, but further research is needed to define its clinical significance.

Notes: As with other trypsin-family proteases, PRSS2 belongs to a complex network of proteolytic enzymes that regulate digestion and tissue remodeling.