Anti-UCP2 antibody

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

UCP2 also known as Uncoupling Protein 2 is a mitochondrial protein that plays a role in regulating the production of heat by uncoupling oxidative phosphorylation from ATP synthesis. It has a molecular mass of approximately 33 kDa. UCP2 can be found in various tissues like the brain pancreas heart and adipose tissue. This protein facilitates the transport of protons across the inner mitochondrial membrane which dissipates the proton gradient leading to a reduction in ATP synthesis efficiency.

Biological function summary

UCP2 influences energy balance and metabolism in cells. It is not part of a complex but it functions independently as a transporter within the mitochondrial membrane. UCP2 modulates reactive oxygen species (ROS) production impacting antioxidant defenses and influencing insulin secretion. Its role in decreasing ROS is particularly important for protecting cells from oxidative damage and helping in the maintenance of cellular homeostasis.

Pathways

UCP2 is critical to thermogenesis and energy expenditure mechanisms. It is involved in the oxidative phosphorylation pathway affecting how cells produce energy. The protein is related to others in its family such as UCP1 and UCP3 which have similar functions but are expressed differently. UCP2 also intersects with pathways involving glucose metabolism where it influences insulin function and glucose uptake indirectly through its regulatory action.

Associated diseases and disorders

UCP2 has links to obesity and diabetes. Its role in energy regulation and control of ROS offers insights into how imbalances can lead to metabolic syndromes. In obesity altered UCP2 expression may contribute to changes in energy expenditure and fat storage regulation. For diabetes UCP2 is closely connected to insulin signaling where its function impacts insulin secretion from pancreatic beta-cells. These connections underline the potential of UCP2 as a therapeutic target for metabolic diseases.