ITIH2

Inter-alpha-trypsin inhibitor heavy chain 2 (ITIH2), also known as IHRP2, is a core component of the inter-alpha-trypsin inhibitor (ITI) complex. Synthesized mainly in the liver, it covalently binds hyaluronan (HA) via a chondroitin sulfate bridge, stabilizing the extracellular matrix (ECM) and maintaining tissue architecture. As an acute phase protein, its serum levels fluctuate during inflammation or tissue damage.
ITIH2 participates in ECM remodeling and acute phase response pathways. Dysregulation links to liver fibrosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and inflammatory conditions like sepsis. Direct drugs targeting ITIH2 are scarce, but its role in ECM integrity makes it a promising biomarker for liver disease severity, with ongoing studies exploring ITI complex modulation for ECM-related disorders.