NCOA2
NCOA2: A Gene with Multifaceted Roles in Health and Disease
Description
NCOA2, also known as nuclear receptor coactivator 2, is a gene that encodes a protein involved in various cellular processes, including:
- Gene transcription regulation
- Cell proliferation and differentiation
- Lipid metabolism
- Immune response
The NCOA2 protein acts as a coactivator, enhancing the activity of other proteins involved in gene transcription. It interacts with numerous nuclear receptors, transcription factors, and other proteins to modulate gene expression.
Associated Diseases
Mutations or variations in the NCOA2 gene have been linked to several diseases and conditions, including:
- Cardiovascular disease: NCOA2 deficiency can impair cholesterol metabolism and increase the risk of atherosclerosis and heart attack.
- Obesity and diabetes: NCOA2 plays a role in regulating appetite and body weight. Mutations in the gene can lead to obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes.
- Neurodegenerative diseases: Abnormal NCOA2 expression has been implicated in Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
- Cancer: NCOA2 can act as a tumor suppressor or promoter depending on the context. Mutations or overexpression of the gene have been associated with various cancers, including breast, prostate, and lung cancer.
Did you Know ?
Recent studies have shown that people with a specific variant of the NCOA2 gene (rs1800795) may have an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. Carriers of this allele have been found to have higher levels of amyloid-beta plaques in their brains, a hallmark of the disease.
