Gene Symbol | MT2A |
Entrez Gene ID | 4502 |
Full Name | metallothionein 2A |
Synonyms | MT-2,MT-II,MT2 |
General protein information |
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Gene Type | protein-coding |
Organism | Homo sapiens(human) |
Genome | |
Summary | This gene is a member of the metallothionein family of genes. Proteins encoded by this gene family are low in molecular weight, are cysteine-rich, lack aromatic residues, and bind divalent heavy metal ions, altering the intracellular concentration of heavy metals in the cell. These proteins act as anti-oxidants, protect against hydroxyl free radicals, are important in homeostatic control of metal in the cell, and play a role in detoxification of heavy metals. The encoded protein interacts with the protein encoded by the homeobox containing 1 gene in some cell types, controlling intracellular zinc levels, affecting apoptotic and autophagy pathways. Some polymorphisms in this gene are associated with an increased risk of cancer. [provided by RefSeq, Sep 2017]. |
Disorder MIM: |