GLS2

The protein encoded by this gene is a mitochondrial phosphate-activated glutaminase that catalyzes the hydrolysis of glutamine to stoichiometric amounts of glutamate and ammonia. Originally thought to be liver-specific, this protein has been found in other tissues as well. Alternative splicing results in multiple transcript variants that encode different isoforms.

Full Name

glutaminase 2 (liver, mitochondrial)

Function

Plays an important role in the regulation of glutamine catabolism. Promotes mitochondrial respiration and increases ATP generation in cells by catalyzing the synthesis of glutamate and alpha-ketoglutarate. Increases cellular anti-oxidant function via NADH and glutathione production. May play a role in preventing tumor proliferation.

Biological Process

Cellular amino acid metabolic process Source: ProtInc
Glutamate biosynthetic process Source: GO_Central
Glutamine catabolic process Source: GO_Central
Reactive oxygen species metabolic process Source: MGI
Regulation of apoptotic process Source: MGI

Cellular Location

Mitochondrion