NEIL2s

NEIL2s, also known as N-terminal EF-hand calcium-binding protein 2, is a protein encoded by the NEIL2 gene. It is a member of the Nei-like DNA glycosylase family, which plays a crucial role in DNA repair. Specifically, NEIL2s is involved in the base excision repair (BER) pathway, a major mechanism for removing damaged DNA bases. This protein possesses catalytic activity that allows it to identify and excise oxidized bases from DNA, such as 8-oxoguanine, a common lesion caused by reactive oxygen species.

The NEIL2 protein is found in various tissues throughout the body and is particularly important in maintaining genomic stability. Its function is essential for preventing mutations that can lead to diseases like cancer. Research has indicated that NEIL2s may also be involved in other cellular processes beyond DNA repair, though these roles are less understood. Its expression levels can vary depending on cellular conditions and stress, suggesting a dynamic regulation of its activity.