NAT2
Description
The NAT2 (N-acetyltransferase 2) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 8.
NAT2, encoded by the NAT2 gene, is an enzyme involved in the acetylation of various compounds, including drugs and carcinogens. It is responsible for the N-acetylation polymorphism, where individuals are classified as rapid, intermediate, or slow acetylators based on their NAT2 genotype. Genetic variations in NAT2 are linked to differences in drug metabolism, cancer susceptibility, and drug toxicity. NAT2 is closely related to NAT1, another arylamine N-acetyltransferase gene.
NAT2 plays a crucial role in detoxification by acetylating various arylamine and heterocyclic amine substrates, including hydrazine and arylamine drugs. This acetylation process can both detoxify and activate compounds, influencing drug efficacy and cancer risk.
NAT2 is also known as AAC2, NAT-2, PNAT.
