Sterol regulatory element-binding protein 2

Sterol regulatory element-binding protein 2 (SREBP-2) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the SREBF2 gene. SREBP-2 is a member of the sterol regulatory element-binding proteins family of transcription factors.

Function

SREBP-2 is a basic helix-loop-helix-leucine zipper (bHLH-Zip) transcription factor that regulates cholesterol homeostasis by controlling the expression of a range of genes involved in cholesterol metabolism. It is a key player in the regulation of lipid metabolism, particularly in the synthesis and uptake of cholesterol and fatty acids.

Structure

The SREBP-2 protein is synthesized as a precursor that is attached to the nuclear envelope and endoplasmic reticulum. In the presence of sterols, SREBP-2 is cleaved to a soluble form that enters the nucleus and activates the transcription of genes with sterol regulatory elements (SREs) in their promoters.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the SREBF2 gene have been associated with hypercholesterolemia. Overexpression of SREBP-2 can lead to increased cholesterol synthesis, while decreased expression can lead to reduced cholesterol synthesis.

See also

• Sterol regulatory element-binding proteins
• Cholesterol
• Hypercholesterolemia