The LAMP2 gene provides instructions for making a protein called lysosome-associated membrane glycoprotein 2 (LAMP-2). As its name suggests, this protein is found in the membrane of cellular structures called lysosomes. Lysosomes are compartments in the cell that digest and recycle different types of materials. The LAMP-2 protein helps transport cellular materials or digestive enzymes into the lysosome. Slightly different versions (isoforms) of the LAMP-2 protein are produced: LAMP-2A, LAMP-2B, and LAMP-2C. These isoforms have slightly different functions and are found in different tissues throughout the body.
The LAMP-2A isoform helps transport certain proteins into the lysosome to be broken down. The LAMP-2B isoform is needed to transport materials into lysosomes using a formation of cellular structures called autophagic vacuoles (or autophagosomes). Cellular material is first enclosed in an autophagic vacuole inside the cell. The autophagic vacuole attaches (fuses) to a lysosome to transfer the cellular material into the lysosome where it can be broken down. The LAMP-2B isoform is involved in the fusion between autophagic vacuoles and lysosomes. LAMP-2B is the main isoform found in the heart and the muscles used for movement (skeletal muscles). The LAMP-2C isoform helps transport building blocks of DNA and RNA (nucleotides) into the lysosome to be broken down.
Other Names
CD107 antigen-like family member B; CD107b; LAMP-2; LAMP2_HUMAN; LAMPB; LGP110
Related Genetics Topics
Identifiers
- NCBI Gene: 3920
- OMIM: 309060
Source: MedlinePlus Genetics, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
