Par2 - Hero or Villain?

Protease Activated Receptor 2 (Par2) is a membrane-bound receptor involved in cellular signaling. Par2 activation occurs in response to various injuries, and is strongly connected to inflammation and regeneration of the tissue. The role of Par2 in pain signaling, swelling regulation, autoimmune diseases etc. makes it an intriguing target for treatment development, however, its activation may be a double-edged sword, as it can either enhance or reduce the severity of disease symptoms. In an article published in Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Dr. Ron Piran and associates show a dual effect of Par2 in the development of type 1 diabetes (T1D). The researchers found that deprivation of Par2 expression in the insulin-secreting β-cells in the pancreas results in earlier diabetes onset. In contrast, a specific knockout of Par2 in leukocytes – pro-inflammatory immune cells – completely abolished diabetes development in mouse model. Overall, this study highlights Par2’s potential as a drug target for autoimmune diseases, particularly T1D.