LOXL2
Protein-coding gene in the species Homo sapiens
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Lysyl oxidase homolog 2 is an enzyme that in humans is encoded by the LOXL2 gene.[5][6]
Function
This gene encodes a member of the lysyl oxidase gene family. The prototypic member of the family is essential to the biogenesis of connective tissue, encoding an extracellular copper-dependent amine oxidase that catalyses the first step in the formation of crosslinks in collagens and elastin. A highly conserved amino acid sequence at the C-terminus end appears to be sufficient for amine oxidase activity, suggesting that each family member may retain this function. The N-terminus is poorly conserved and may impart additional roles in developmental regulation, senescence, tumor suppression, cell growth control, and chemotaxis to each member of the family.[6]
LOXL2 can also crosslink collagen type IV and hence influence the sprouting of new blood vessels.[7]
Clinical significance
LOXL2 is an enzyme that is up-regulated in several types of cancer and is associated with a poorer prognosis.[8][9] LOXL2 changes the structure of histones (proteins that are attached to DNA)[10] and thus changes the shape of the cells, making it easier for the cancer cells to metastasize.[11]
An antibody that inhibits the activity of LOXL2, simtuzumab, is currently in clinical trials for the treatment of several types of cancer and fibrotic diseases such as liver fibrosis.[12]
