BCL2L2

Bcl-2-like protein 2 is a is_associated_with::protein that in humans is encoded by the BCL2L2 is_associated_with::gene. It was originally discovered by Leonie Gibson, is_associated_with::Suzanne Cory and colleagues at the is_associated_with::Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, who called it Bcl-w.''.

Function
This gene encodes a pro-survival (anti-apoptotic) member of the is_associated_with::bcl-2 is_associated_with::protein family. The proteins of this family form hetero- or homodimers and act as anti- and pro-apoptotic regulators. Expression of this gene in cells has been shown to contribute to reduced cell apoptosis under cytotoxic conditions. Studies of the related gene in mice indicated a role in the survival of NGF- and is_associated_with::BDNF-dependent neurons. Mutation and knockout studies of the mouse gene demonstrated an essential role in adult is_associated_with::spermatogenesis.

Relative to its is_associated_with::Bcl-2 counterparts there is considerably less data on this particular protein. Located on chromosome 14q11 it appears to be redundant in most tissues apart from specific examples.

Interactions
BCL2L2 has been shown to interact with:
 * is_associated_with::BCL2L11
 * BAD,  and
 * is_associated_with::PPP1CA.