HK2
GeneName
HK2
Summary
HK2, also known as hexokinase 2 or HK II, is a 102 kDa enzyme that plays a pivotal role in glucose metabolism by catalysing the phosphorylation of D-glucose to glucose-6-phosphate, the first step in glycolysis. It is predominantly expressed in tissues with high energy demands, such as muscle and brain, and is localised to various cellular compartments including the cytosol, mitochondria, and sarcoplasmic reticulum. HK2 is involved in several biological processes including canonical glycolysis, glucose homeostasis, and the regulation of mitochondrial functions, particularly during cellular stress responses such as hypoxia and ischemia. Additionally, it has roles in angiogenesis and mitophagy, highlighting its importance in both metabolic regulation and cellular adaptation.
Importance
HK2 is relevant to: - Cancer metabolism, as it is often overexpressed in tumours to support the Warburg effect and promote rapid cell proliferation - Metabolic disorders, including diabetes, due to its central role in glucose regulation and homeostasis - Cardiovascular diseases, where it contributes to cellular responses to ischemia and hypoxia - Neurodegenerative diseases, given its involvement in mitochondrial function and reactive oxygen species management
Top Products
For researchers investigating HK2, we highly recommend the top-selling recombinant antibody, Anti-Hexokinase II antibody [EPR20839] (ab209847). This well-cited antibody has garnered 207 citations, reflecting its strong reputation in the field. It has been validated in knockout models, ensuring reliable performance across a range of applications, including Western blotting (WB), immunohistochemistry (IHC), immunocytochemistry (ICC), immunoprecipitation (IP), and flow cytometry (FC). This versatility makes it an excellent choice for those seeking dependable detection of HK2 in various experimental setups. The Recombinant Hexokinase II protein ELISA Kit (ab252472) is an excellent option for researchers looking to measure HK2 in their experiments.
Abcam Product Citation Summary
The data indicates that HK2 is being extensively studied in various human cell types, particularly in the context of cancer, including neuroblastoma, melanoma, and multiple myeloma. The applications primarily focus on Western blotting, highlighting the role of HK2 in glycolysis and tumour progression. Additionally, studies involving high-intensity interval training and miRNA effects suggest a broader interest in metabolic regulation and cellular responses.
Abcam Product Citation Table
Domain
The N- and C-terminal halves of the protein contain a hexokinase domain (PubMed:29298880). In contrast to hexokinase-1 and -3 (HK1 and HK3, respectively), both hexokinase domains display catalytic activity (PubMed:29298880). The region connecting the two hexokinase domains is required for the catalytic activity of the N-terminal hexokinase domain (PubMed:29298880). The N-terminal half regulates stability of the whole enzyme (PubMed:29298880).
Function
Catalyzes the phosphorylation of hexose, such as D-glucose and D-fructose, to hexose 6-phosphate (D-glucose 6-phosphate and D-fructose 6-phosphate, respectively) (PubMed:23185017, PubMed:26985301, PubMed:29298880). Mediates the initial step of glycolysis by catalyzing phosphorylation of D-glucose to D-glucose 6-phosphate (PubMed:29298880). Plays a key role in maintaining the integrity of the outer mitochondrial membrane by preventing the release of apoptogenic molecules from the intermembrane space and subsequent apoptosis (PubMed:18350175).
Pathway
Carbohydrate metabolism; hexose metabolism.
Carbohydrate degradation; glycolysis; D-glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate and glycerone phosphate from D-glucose: step 1/4.
Sequence Similarities
Belongs to the hexokinase family.
Tissue Specificity
Predominant hexokinase isozyme expressed in insulin-responsive tissues such as skeletal muscle.
Cellular localization
- Mitochondrion outer membrane
- Peripheral membrane protein
- Cytoplasm
- Cytosol
- The mitochondrial-binding peptide (MBP) region promotes association with the mitochondrial outer membrane (PubMed:29298880). The interaction with the mitochondrial outer membrane via the mitochondrial-binding peptide (MBP) region promotes higher stability of the protein (PubMed:29298880). Release from the mitochondrial outer membrane into the cytosol induces permeability transition pore (PTP) opening and apoptosis (PubMed:18350175).
Alternative names
Hexokinase-2, Hexokinase type II, Hexokinase-B, Muscle form hexokinase, HK II, HK2