UGT2A2

UGT2A2 is an enzyme that in humans is encoded by the UGT2A2 gene. It is a member of the UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) family of enzymes, which play a crucial role in the metabolism and elimination of potentially harmful compounds from the body.

Function

UGT2A2 is involved in the process of glucuronidation, a major pathway in the body's elimination of both endogenous substances (such as bilirubin and steroids) and exogenous compounds (including drugs and other xenobiotics). The UGT2A2 enzyme accomplishes this by transferring a glucuronic acid molecule from UDP-glucuronic acid to a substrate molecule, thereby increasing the substrate's water solubility and facilitating its excretion.

Clinical Significance

Alterations in the UGT2A2 gene can affect the enzyme's function and potentially lead to disease. For example, reduced UGT2A2 activity can result in the buildup of potentially toxic compounds in the body. This has been implicated in conditions such as Gilbert's syndrome, which is characterized by mild, chronic unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia.

Research

Research into UGT2A2 is ongoing, with studies investigating its role in drug metabolism and the potential for UGT2A2-related genetic variations to influence individual responses to medication. This is a key area of interest in the field of pharmacogenomics.

See Also

• UDP-glucuronosyltransferase
• Glucuronidation
• Gilbert's syndrome
• Pharmacogenomics