VDAC2

This gene encodes a member of the voltage-dependent anion channel pore-forming family of proteins that are considered the main pathway for metabolite diffusion across the mitochondrial outer membrane. The encoded protein is also thought to be involved in the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway via regulation of BCL2-antagonist/killer 1 protein activity. Pseudogenes have been identified on chromosomes 1, 2, 12 and 21, and alternative splicing results in multiple transcript variants.

Full Name

voltage-dependent anion channel 2

Function

Forms a channel through the mitochondrial outer membrane that allows diffusion of small hydrophilic molecules (By similarity).
The channel adopts an open conformation at low or zero membrane potential and a closed conformation at potentials above 30-40 mV (By similarity).
The open state has a weak anion selectivity whereas the closed state is cation-selective (By similarity).
Binds various lipids, including the sphingolipid ceramide, the phospholipid phosphatidylcholine, and the sterol cholesterol (PubMed:31015432).
Binding of ceramide promotes the mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization (MOMP) apoptotic pathway (PubMed:31015432).

Biological Process

Biological Process anion transport Source:UniProtKB1 Publication
Biological Process binding of sperm to zona pellucida Source:CAFA1 Publication
Biological Process mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization Source:UniProtKB1 Publication
Biological Process negative regulation of intrinsic apoptotic signaling pathway Source:Ensembl
Biological Process negative regulation of protein polymerization Source:Ensembl

Cellular Location

Mitochondrion outer membrane
Membrane
May localize to non-mitochondrial membranes.

PTM

Ubiquitinated by PRKN during mitophagy, leading to its degradation and enhancement of mitophagy. Deubiquitinated by USP30.