PROK2 Antibody – Rabbit Polyclonal

This gene encodes a protein expressed in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) circadian clock that may function as the output component of the circadian clock. The secreted form of the encoded protein may also serve as a chemoattractant for neuronal precursor cells in the olfactory bulb. Proteins from other vertebrates which are similar to this gene product were isolated based on homology to snake venom and secretions from frog skin, and have been shown to have diverse functions. Mutations in this gene are associated with Kallmann syndrome 4. Multiple transcript variants encoding different isoforms have been found for this gene. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008]

PROK2: May function as an output molecule from the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) that transmits behavioral circadian rhythm. May also function locally within the SCN to synchronize output. Potently contracts gastrointestinal (GI) smooth muscle. Defects in PROK2 are the cause of Kallmann syndrome type 4 (KAL4); also known as hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and anosmia. Anosmia or hyposmia is related to the absence or hypoplasia of the olfactory bulbs and tracts. Hypogonadism is due to deficiency in gonadotropin-releasing hormone and probably results from a failure of embryonic migration of gonadotropin- releasing hormone-synthesizing neurons. KAL4 patients have variable degrees of olfactory and reproductive dysfunction, but do not show any of the occasional clinical anomalies reported in Kallmann syndrome such as renal agenesis, cleft lip/palate, selective tooth agenesis, and bimanual synkinesis. Belongs to the AVIT (prokineticin) family. 2 isoforms of the human protein are produced by alternative splicing.

Protein type: Secreted; Secreted, signal peptide

Chromosomal Location of Human Ortholog: 3p13

Cellular Component: extracellular region

Molecular Function: G-protein-coupled receptor binding

Biological Process: activation of MAPK activity; angiogenesis; cell proliferation; chemotaxis; circadian rhythm; elevation of cytosolic calcium ion concentration; negative regulation of apoptosis; positive regulation of cell proliferation; positive regulation of smooth muscle contraction; regulation of angiogenesis; sensory perception of pain; spermatogenesis

Disease: Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism 4 With Or Without Anosmia