Baculoviral IAP repeat-containing protein 2

Protein BIRC2 PDB 1qbh

Baculoviral IAP repeat-containing protein 2

Baculoviral IAP repeat-containing protein 2 (BIRC2), also known as cIAP1, is a protein that in humans is encoded by the BIRC2 gene. BIRC2 is a member of the inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP) gene family. This protein contains three baculovirus IAP repeats and a RING finger domain. It has been shown to interact with tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factors TRAF1 and TRAF2, and thus plays a role in the signal transduction pathway leading to apoptosis.

Structure

BIRC2 contains three baculovirus IAP repeats (BIR) and a RING finger domain. The BIR domains are responsible for protein-protein interactions, particularly with TRAF1 and TRAF2. The RING finger domain is involved in E3 ubiquitin ligase activity, which allows BIRC2 to ubiquitinate target proteins for degradation.

Function

BIRC2 functions as an inhibitor of apoptosis by inhibiting caspases, which are key enzymes in the apoptotic pathway. It also plays a role in regulating immune responses and inflammation through its interactions with TRAF1 and TRAF2.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the BIRC2 gene have been associated with autoimmune diseases and cancer. Dysregulation of BIRC2 expression can lead to abnormal cell survival and proliferation, contributing to disease pathogenesis.

Interactions

BIRC2 interacts with various proteins involved in the apoptotic and inflammatory pathways, including TRAF1, TRAF2, and caspases. These interactions modulate cell signaling processes and determine cell fate.