TMPRSS6

TMPRSS6, also known as matriptase-2, is a type II transmembrane serine protease with important biological functions, especially in the regulation of iron homeostasis. The structure of TMPRSS6 includes an N-terminal intracellular domain, a transmembrane region, two CUB domains, three LDLA domains, and a C-terminal protease catalytic domain. It is mainly expressed in the liver and functions on the cell surface. TMPRSS6 regulates the BMP/SMAD signaling pathway by cleaving hepcidin HJV, thereby controlling the production of hepcidin, a key hormone that regulates iron absorption. In addition, TMPRSS6 also participates in the regulation of the hepcidin-iron transport protein axis, affecting iron uptake and distribution. Abnormal function of TMPRSS6 is associated with various iron metabolism diseases, making it a potential target for research and treatment of iron metabolism disorders.