MT2A

This gene is a member of the metallothionein family of genes. Proteins encoded by this gene family are low in molecular weight, are cysteine-rich, lack aromatic residues, and bind divalent heavy metal ions, altering the intracellular concentration of heavy metals in the cell. These proteins act as anti-oxidants, protect against hydroxyl free radicals, are important in homeostatic control of metal in the cell, and play a role in detoxification of heavy metals. The encoded protein interacts with the protein encoded by the homeobox containing 1 gene in some cell types, controlling intracellular zinc levels, affecting apoptotic and autophagy pathways. Some polymorphisms in this gene are associated with an increased risk of cancer.

Full Name

metallothionein 2A

Function

Metallothioneins have a high content of cysteine residues that bind various heavy metals; these proteins are transcriptionally regulated by both heavy metals and glucocorticoids.

Biological Process

Cellular copper ion homeostasis Source: ProtInc
Cellular response to cadmium ion Source: GO_Central
Cellular response to copper ion Source: GO_Central
Cellular response to erythropoietin Source: UniProtKB
Cellular response to interleukin-3 Source: UniProtKB
Cellular response to zinc ion Source: UniProtKB
Cellular zinc ion homeostasis Source: GO_Central
Detoxification of copper ion Source: GO_Central
Negative regulation of growth Source: UniProtKB

Cellular Location

Cytosol
Nucleus
Other locations
cytoplasm