Full name: |
metallothionein 2A |
Synonyms: |
MT2; MT-2; MT-II |
Swissprot: |
P02795 |
Gene Accession: |
BC007034 |
Purity: |
>85%, as determined by Coomassie blue stained SDS-PAGE |
Expression system: |
Escherichia coli |
Tags: |
His tag C-Terminus, GST tag N-Terminus |
Background: |
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. |