SPINK5/LEKTI [E9]

Serine peptidase inhibitor Kazal type 5 (SPINK5), also known Lympho-epithelial Kazal-type inhibitor (LEKTI) which is highly expressed in the thymus and stratum corneum, protects mucous epithelia against microbial attack and inflammation. SPINK5 is found in the oral mucosa, parathyroid gland, Bartholin’s glands, tonsils, and vaginal epithelium. Very low levels are detected in lung, kidney, and prostate. SPINK5 is a marker of epithelial differentiation and expresses strongly in the granular and uppermost spinous layers of the epidermis and differentiated layers of stratified epithelia. Defects in SPINK5 are the cause of Netherton syndrome (NETH), a severe autosomal recessive disorder characterized by atopic dermatitis, hayfever and other conditions.