FARS2

Aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases are a class of enzymes that charge tRNAs with their cognate amino acids. This gene encodes a phenylalanine-tRNA synthetase (PheRS) localized to the mitochondrion which consists of a single polypeptide chain, unlike the (alpha-beta)2 structure of the prokaryotic and eukaryotic cytoplasmic forms of PheRS. Structure analysis and catalytic properties indicate mitochondrial PheRSs may constitute a class of PheRS distinct from the enzymes found in prokaryotes and in the eukaryotic cytoplasm. [provided by RefSeq]

Full Name

phenylalanyl-tRNA synthetase 2, mitochondrial

Research Area

Is responsible for the charging of tRNA(Phe) with phenylalanine in mitochondrial translation. To a lesser extent, also catalyzes direct attachment of m-Tyr (an oxidized version of Phe) to tRNA(Phe), thereby opening the way for delivery of the misacylated tRNA to the ribosome and incorporation of ROS-damaged amino acid into proteins.

Biological Process

Phenylalanyl-tRNA aminoacylation Source: UniProtKB
tRNA aminoacylation for protein translation Source: Reactome
tRNA processing Source: UniProtKB

Cellular Location

Mitochondrion matrix; Mitochondrion

Involvement in disease

Combined oxidative phosphorylation deficiency 14 (COXPD14):
A severe multisystemic autosomal recessive disorder characterized by neonatal onset of global developmental delay, refractory seizures, and lactic acidosis. Biochemical studies show deficiencies of multiple mitochondrial respiratory enzymes.
Spastic paraplegia 77, autosomal recessive (SPG77):
A form of spastic paraplegia, a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by a slow, gradual, progressive weakness and spasticity of the lower limbs. Rate of progression and the severity of symptoms are quite variable. Initial symptoms may include difficulty with balance, weakness and stiffness in the legs, muscle spasms, and dragging the toes when walking. In some forms of the disorder, bladder symptoms (such as incontinence) may appear, or the weakness and stiffness may spread to other parts of the body.