OPR2

OPR2 is a gene that encodes the enzyme ornithine aminotransferase, which plays a crucial role in the amino acid metabolism pathway. This enzyme facilitates the reversible conversion of ornithine and glutamate into glutamate semialdehyde and glutamate, processes fundamental to the urea cycle and amino acid biosynthesis. The gene is located on human chromosome 10q23.31 and is conserved across several species, reflecting its importance in metabolic regulation.

OPR2's activity influences the balance of nitrogen and amino acid levels in cells, especially in the liver, where it contributes to detoxifying ammonia via the urea cycle. Mutations or deficiencies in the OPR2 gene can lead to metabolic disorders, such as hyperornithinemia and other urea cycle-related conditions, which may result in neurological symptoms if left untreated.

In research, OPR2 has been studied for its potential involvement in metabolic diseases and its role in cellular responses to oxidative stress. Additionally, its expression levels have been examined in various tissues to understand its contributions to metabolic homeostasis and disease states.

Understanding the function and regulation of OPR2 is important in the context of metabolic health, and ongoing studies aim to elucidate its role in broader biochemical networks. While not as extensively characterized as other metabolic genes, OPR2 remains a focus of interest for its potential implications in metabolic and genetic disorders.

Overall, OPR2 is a key component of amino acid metabolism with relevance to human health, particularly in disorders related to nitrogen management and amino acid balance.