HAS2
Description
The HAS2 (hyaluronan synthase 2) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 8.
Hyaluronan synthase 2 is an enzyme encoded by the HAS2 gene in humans. Hyaluronan, also known as hyaluronic acid, is a large, unbranched polysaccharide found in various organisms, including bacteria and mammals, and is a component of the extracellular matrix. It consists of alternating glucuronic acid and N-acetylglucosamine residues linked by beta-1-3 and beta-1-4 glycosidic bonds. Hyaluronic acid is synthesized at the inner surface of the plasma membrane by membrane-bound synthases and extruded into the extracellular space via ABC-Transporters. It performs various functions, including space filling, joint lubrication, and providing a matrix for cell migration. Hyaluronic acid is produced during wound healing and tissue repair, providing a framework for blood vessel and fibroblast ingrowth. Altered serum hyaluronic acid concentrations are associated with inflammatory and degenerative arthropathies, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Additionally, hyaluronic acid interacts with the leukocyte receptor CD44, playing a role in tissue-specific leukocyte homing. Overexpression of hyaluronic acid receptors has been linked to tumor metastasis. HAS2 belongs to the vertebrate gene family encoding putative hyaluronan synthases, and its amino acid sequence exhibits significant homology to glycosaminoglycan synthetase (DG42) from Xenopus laevis, as well as human and murine hyaluronan synthase 1.
HAS2 catalyzes the addition of GlcNAc or GlcUA monosaccharides to the nascent hyaluronan polymer, a crucial step in hyaluronan synthesis. Hyaluronan, a major component of most extracellular matrices, plays a structural role in tissue architecture and regulates cell adhesion, migration, and differentiation. As one of three isoenzymes involved in cellular hyaluronan synthesis, HAS2 is particularly responsible for the synthesis of high molecular mass hyaluronan.
HAS2 is also known as -.
