ABHD2

Abhydrolase domain-containing protein 2 is an is_associated_with::enzyme that in humans is encoded by the ABHD2 is_associated_with::gene.

Function
This gene encodes a protein containing an is_associated_with::alpha/beta hydrolase fold, which is a catalytic domain found in a very wide range of is_associated_with::enzymes. The function of this protein has not been determined. Alternative splicing of this gene results in two transcript variants encoding the same protein.

Role in disease
The ABHD2 gene is down regulated in the lungs of people with is_associated_with::Emphysema. Analysis of ABHD2 deficiency in mice found a decrease in is_associated_with::phosphatidylcholine levels. The mice developed emphysema which was attributed to an increase in is_associated_with::macrophage infiltration, increased inflammatory is_associated_with::cytokine levels, an imbalance of protease/anti-protease, and an increase in cell death. This research suggests that ABHD2 is important in maintaining the structural integrity of the lungs, and that disruption of phospholipid metabolism in the alveoli may lead to the development of emphysema. Increased expression has also been seen in the lungs of smokers.

ABDH2 is also expressed in is_associated_with::atherosclerotic lesions. Expression has been found to be higher in patients with unstable angina than in patients with stable angina.

Up-regulation of ABDH2 has been observed in cells transfected with is_associated_with::Hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA (HepG2.2.15 cells). Expression was down-regulated by the drug is_associated_with::lamivudine, used in the treatment of hepatitis B. It has been suggested that ABHD2 has an important role in HBV propagation and could be a potential drug target in the treatment of hepatitis B.