The WFDC2 protein is found in the human body. Research has focused on its roles in biological processes and its association with health conditions, providing insights into its contributions to human health and disease.
What is WFDC2
WFDC2 stands for WAP Four-Disulfide Core Domain 2. This small protein is secreted by cells, meaning it is released into the surrounding environment. The WFDC2 protein is encoded by the WFDC2 gene, located on human chromosome 20 at band 20q13.12.
WFDC2 belongs to the WAP-type family of proteins, characterized by a conserved WAP signature motif. This motif contains eight cysteine residues that form four disulfide bonds at the protein’s core. Many proteins in this family function as protease inhibitors, blocking enzymes that break down other proteins.
Where WFDC2 is Found in the Body
WFDC2 protein is expressed in various human tissues and organs. It is prominently found in the female reproductive tract, including the fallopian tubes and endometrium. High levels are also observed in salivary glands and parts of the respiratory tract, such as the lungs, nasal passages, and trachea.
As a secreted protein, WFDC2 can be detected in biological fluids like blood, urine, and saliva. Its presence in these diverse locations and fluids suggests widespread biological roles.
How WFDC2 Functions
WFDC2 plays a role in the body’s innate immune system and inflammatory responses. Proteins with the WAP domain, like WFDC2, are often involved in host defense mechanisms in epithelial tissues. WFDC2 contributes to these defenses, potentially through antimicrobial properties or by influencing immune cell activities.
Research suggests WFDC2 functions as an antiproteinase, inhibiting certain proteases. This action helps regulate inflammatory processes by controlling protein breakdown in immune responses. WFDC2 may also contribute to other biological processes, such as tissue remodeling and sperm maturation in the male reproductive system.
WFDC2 and its Link to Health Conditions
WFDC2 is widely recognized as the HE4 (Human Epididymis Protein 4) biomarker, particularly for ovarian cancer. Elevated HE4 levels are often found in women with epithelial ovarian cancer, making it useful for diagnosis and management. It helps distinguish between benign and malignant ovarian masses.
HE4 is frequently used with CA125 (Cancer Antigen 125), another ovarian cancer biomarker. Combining HE4 and CA125, especially in algorithms like the Risk of Ovarian Malignancy Algorithm (ROMA), improves the accuracy of assessing pelvic masses. The ROMA algorithm integrates both biomarker levels with menopausal status to provide a score indicating ovarian cancer likelihood, aiding referral to gynecologic oncologists.
Beyond initial diagnosis, HE4 monitors treatment response and detects recurrence in ovarian cancer patients. Studies show HE4 can predict recurrence earlier than CA125 in some cases, and it may be elevated even when CA125 levels are not. This earlier detection offers valuable lead time for disease management.
While primarily used for ovarian cancer, elevated HE4 levels are also associated with other conditions. These include certain lung cancers, such as lung adenocarcinoma, and kidney disease, where it may mark early chronic kidney disease. HE4 levels may also be elevated in endometrial cancer, showing potential as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker. WFDC2/HE4 acts as a marker for these conditions, indicating their presence or progression, rather than being their direct cause.