SPNS2
Description
The SPNS2 (SPNS lysolipid transporter 2, sphingosine-1-phosphate) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 17.
Spinster homolog 2 (Drosophila) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the SPNS2 gene.
SPNS2 is a lipid transporter that specifically mediates export of sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) and sphinganine-1-phosphate in the lymph. This role is essential for lymphocyte trafficking, as it helps regulate the levels of S1P and the S1P gradient between circulating and tissue levels. This gradient is crucial for controlling lymphocyte movement. SPNS2 is also required for the egress of T-cells from lymph nodes during an immune response and for the egress of immature B-cells from the bone marrow. However, it does not play a role in S1P release from red blood cells. SPNS2 is involved in auditory function and is responsible for S1P release in the inner ear, which is essential for maintaining the endocochlear potential in the cochlea. In addition to export, SPNS2 can also mediate S1P import.
SPNS2 is also known as DFNB115, SLC62A2, SLC63A2.
