Klotho 

Klotho

Klotho is a transmembrane protein that provides some control over the sensitivity of the organism to insulin and appears to be involved in ageing

α-klotho is highly expressed in the brain, liver and kidney.

β-klotho is predominantly expressed in the liver.

γ-klotho is expressed in the skin.

What are the forms in which klotho exist?

Klotho can exist in a membrane-bound form or a (hormonal) soluble, circulating form.

Proteases can convert the membrane-bound form into the circulating form

What is the ‘α-klotho’ gene location?

α-klotho gene is located on chromosome 13

What is the Clinical significance of Klotho?

α-klotho can suppress oxidative stress and inflammation, thereby reducing endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis.

Blood plasma α-klotho is increased by aerobic exercise, thereby reducing endothelial dysfunction

Klotho and Ageing

Plasma (soluble) form of α-klotho is most easily measured, and has been shown to decrease after 40 years of age in humans.

Lower plasma levels of α-klotho in older adults is associated with increased frailty and all-cause mortality.

Physical activity has been shown to increase plasma α-klotho

Excessive growth of facial or body hair on women is called Hirsuitism

Excessive growth of facial or body hair on women is called hirsuitism which may be symptom of an underlying disorder. Dark and coarse hair may appear on the face, chest, abdomen, back, upper arms, or upper legs due to excess androgens in blood. Most common medical disorder causing hirsutism is PCOS