MX2

Description

The MX2 (MX dynamin like GTPase 2) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 21.

MX2 is a protein encoded by the MX2 gene in humans. It has both nuclear and cytoplasmic forms and is a member of the dynamin family and the family of large GTPases. The nuclear form is located in the heterochromatin region beneath the nuclear envelope, appearing in a granular pattern. An amino-terminal nuclear localization signal (NLS) is present in the nuclear form but absent in the cytoplasmic form due to an alternative translation start codon. While upregulated by interferon-alpha, MX2 does not possess the antiviral activity of a similar protein, myxovirus resistance protein 1. However, MX2, also known as MXB, exhibits antiviral activity against HIV-1 and herpesviruses. It acts as a restriction factor for herpesviruses, interfering at a very early stage of their replication cycle, and its restriction of herpesvirus requires GTPase activity.

MX2 is an interferon-induced dynamin-like GTPase with potent antiviral activity against human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1). It acts by targeting the viral capsid and affects the nuclear uptake and/or stability of the HIV-1 replication complex, subsequently inhibiting the chromosomal integration of the proviral DNA. MX2 also exhibits antiviral activity against simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV-mnd). It may play a role in regulating nucleocytoplasmic transport and cell-cycle progression.

MX2 is also known as MXB.

Associated Diseases

WES Whole Exome Sequencing