BIRC2

BIRC2 (also known as Baculoviral IAP Repeat Containing 2 or cIAP1) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the BIRC2 gene. This protein is a member of a family of proteins that inhibit apoptosis (programmed cell death) by binding to tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factors TRAF1 and TRAF2.

Function

BIRC2 is an inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP) protein, which means it has the ability to suppress the process of programmed cell death. This is achieved by the protein's ability to bind to tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factors TRAF1 and TRAF2. These factors are known to mediate the activation of NF-kappaB and JNK pathway, which are important in the regulation of immune responses and inflammatory processes.

Clinical significance

Alterations in the BIRC2 gene have been associated with various types of cancer, including lung cancer, breast cancer, and colorectal cancer. This is due to the protein's role in inhibiting apoptosis, which can lead to uncontrolled cell growth and the formation of tumors.

See also

• Inhibitor of apoptosis
• Tumor necrosis factor
• TRAF1
• TRAF2