Glycoprotein 2 (GP2) is a protein encoded by the GP2 gene on chromosome 16p13.3. It contains 656 amino acids and has a molecular weight of approximately 80–90 kDa. GP2 undergoes various post-translational modifications, including phosphorylation and glycosylation. It is primarily known as a membrane-associated protein.
GP2 is predominantly expressed in the pancreas, particularly in the exocrine pancreas, where it plays a crucial role in pancreatic enzyme secretion. It is synthesized and stored in the zymogen granules of pancreatic acinar cells along with digestive enzymes such as amylase and lipase. During pancreatic enzyme secretion, GP2 is released from the zymogen granules into the pancreatic ducts, serving as a receptor for pathogen recognition and clearance in the gastrointestinal tract.
The main function of GP2 is its involvement in the innate immune response within the gastrointestinal tract. For example, GP2 acts as a receptor for bacterial proteins called FimH, found on the surface of certain types of bacteria, such as Escherichia coli. By binding to FimH, GP2 facilitates the uptake and clearance of these bacteria by specialized immune cells in the gut-associated lymphoid tissue, helping to prevent bacterial overgrowth and maintain gut homeostasis. GP2 also facilitates the sampling of luminal antigens by microfold (M) cells—specialized epithelial cells that play a crucial role in sampling luminal antigens and delivering them to immune cells in the underlying lymphoid tissue—in the intestinal epithelium, contributing to immune surveillance and tolerance in the gut.
Various factors, including microbial colonization of the gut and immune signaling molecules, regulate the expression of GP2. Dysregulation or dysfunction of GP2 has been implicated in various gastrointestinal diseases and autoimmune disorders, particularly those involving alterations in gut microbiota and mucosal immunity. Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis and increased susceptibility to bacterial infections have been associated with changes in GP2 expression and function, suggesting a potential role in disease pathogenesis.
Besides serving as a specific marker for pancreatic acinar cells, GP2 has also been investigated as a potential target for therapeutic intervention in IBD and other gut-related disorders. However, specific targeting strategies or immunotherapies directed at GP2 have yet to be reported. Further research into the molecular mechanisms underlying GP2-mediated immune responses may provide insights into its therapeutic potential and clinical applications in the future.
NeoBiotechnologies offers a variety of antibodies against GP2 that have been validated for ELISA, immunohistochemistry, and Western blotting, as well as HuProt validated options. Additionally, we hold exclusive rights to GP2 antibodies available for licensing or collaboration [https://www.neobiotechnologies.com/shop/?s=GP2].
Synonyms
Pancreatic secretory granule membrane major glycoprotein GP2, Pancreatic zymogen granule membrane protein GP-2, ZAP75, Glycoprotein 2 (zymogen granule membrane); GP2; Pancreatic zymogen granule membrane associated protein GP2; Pancreatic zymogen granule membrane protein GP-2; ZAP75
Research Areas
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