Recombinant Human KAZALD1 protein

**Background of KAZALD1 Recombinant Protein**

KAZALD1 (KAZAL-type serine peptidase inhibitor domain-containing protein 1) is a secreted extracellular matrix (ECM)-associated protein belonging to the KAZAL family of serine protease inhibitors. It is characterized by a conserved KAZAL domain, which typically regulates protease activity by binding to and inhibiting enzymes like trypsin or elastase. However, KAZALD1 exhibits unique functional complexity, as it lacks direct protease inhibitory activity in some contexts and may instead act as a multifunctional modulator of cell-ECM interactions, tissue remodeling, and signaling pathways.

The protein is encoded by the *KAZALD1* gene, which undergoes alternative splicing to produce multiple isoforms. These isoforms may differ in their domain composition, potentially influencing interactions with growth factors (e.g., TGF-β) or ECM components like fibrillar collagens. KAZALD1 is highly expressed during embryonic development and in tissues with dynamic ECM turnover, such as bone, cartilage, and connective tissues. It has been implicated in regulating osteoblast differentiation, chondrogenesis, and fibrosis, suggesting roles in skeletal development and pathological scarring.

Recombinant KAZALD1 protein is engineered for in vitro and in vivo studies to dissect its molecular mechanisms. Produced using heterologous expression systems (e.g., mammalian or bacterial cells), it retains functional domains for structural and interaction analyses. Research highlights its dual role: while it may suppress excessive protease activity to protect ECM integrity, it also modulates growth factor signaling, impacting cell proliferation and differentiation. Dysregulation of KAZALD1 is linked to diseases like osteoarthritis, pulmonary fibrosis, and cancer metastasis, making its recombinant form a valuable tool for exploring therapeutic strategies targeting ECM homeostasis or regenerative processes.

Current studies focus on clarifying its context-dependent functions and isoform-specific effects, aiming to unlock its diagnostic or therapeutic potential in fibrosis-related and degenerative disorders.