Cystatin S

Cystatin S, the product of CST4, is a type 2 cystatin concentrated in saliva, tears, and nasal secretions, where it contributes to the first line of mucosal defense by inhibiting cathepsins B, L, S, and H released during inflammation or tissue turnover. Its secretion is regulated in response to dietary and inflammatory stimuli, and salivary cystatin S levels change in periodontal disease. Elevated expression has also been reported in certain tumors, making it a candidate diagnostic marker. Recombinant cystatin S is used for oral-biology research, cysteine-protease inhibition assays, and biomarker studies.