CYP2

CYP2 is a gene that encodes a member of the cytochrome P450 superfamily of enzymes. These enzymes are monooxygenases, meaning they typically add an oxygen atom to a substrate. The cytochrome P450 enzymes are involved in the metabolism of a vast array of endogenous and exogenous compounds, including steroids, fatty acids, and drugs. The CYP2 family, specifically, plays roles in various metabolic pathways. While the exact functions can vary depending on the specific gene within the CYP2 family, they are often associated with the metabolism of xenobiotics, which are foreign chemical substances. This means they can influence how the body processes medications, environmental toxins, and other foreign compounds, impacting their efficacy and potential toxicity. Genetic variations within CYP2 genes can lead to differences in enzyme activity among individuals, contributing to personalized responses to drug treatments and varying susceptibility to certain environmental exposures. Research into CYP2 genes is ongoing to better understand their specific roles in health and disease and to inform pharmacogenomic applications.