Transglutaminase 2 in human diseases

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Transglutaminase 2 (TG2) is a calcium-dependent enzyme catalyzing protein modifications.
• TG2 functions beyond enzymatic activity, acting as a G protein and co-receptor for integrins.
• It is widely expressed across cell types and compartments, and secreted extracellularly.

Purpose of the Study:

• To elucidate the multifaceted roles of Transglutaminase 2 (TG2).
• To highlight TG2's involvement in diverse cellular processes and disease pathogenesis.
• To underscore the therapeutic potential of targeting TG2.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing research on TG2.
• Analysis of TG2's enzymatic and non-enzymatic functions.
• Examination of TG2's association with various human pathologies.

Main Results:

• TG2 exhibits unique dual roles as an enzyme and a signaling protein.
• Its expression is ubiquitous, with roles in cell surface and extracellular matrix.
• TG2 is implicated in diseases like inflammation, cancer, fibrosis, and neurodegeneration.

Conclusions:

• TG2's diverse functions contribute to its involvement in numerous diseases.
• Targeting TG2 presents a promising therapeutic strategy for a range of human conditions.
• Further research into TG2 modulation is warranted for therapeutic development.