BCL2-Associated Athanogene 2 (BAG2) is a member of the BAG family of proteins, which are known for their role in preventing cell death through interactions with BCL2 . BAG2, like other BAG family members, functions as a co-chaperone and interacts with the ATPase domain of heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) through its BAG domain . This interaction is crucial for regulating various cellular functions and maintaining cellular homeostasis.
BAG2 shares a similar molecular structure with other BAG family members. The BAG domain, located at the C-terminal, consists of 110 to 124 amino acids forming three anti-parallel α-helices . This domain is responsible for binding to the ATPase domain of Hsp70, thereby influencing the chaperone activity of Hsp70 . BAG2 also interacts with other molecules and plays a role in various cellular processes, including apoptosis, tumor growth, neuronal differentiation, and stress response .
In humans, BAG2 is widely expressed in various tissues, including brown adipose tissue, heart, and lung . It is also found in several types of tumor cells, such as renal cell carcinoma, glioblastoma, and thyroid carcinoma . Immunofluorescence studies have shown that BAG2 is associated with cellular components like mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and microtubules .
BAG2 has been implicated in the pathogenesis of several diseases, including cancers and neurodegenerative disorders . Its interaction with Hsp70 and other molecules helps regulate cell survival and apoptosis, making it a potential target for therapeutic interventions . Studies have shown that BAG2 is involved in the development of diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and spinocerebellar ataxia type-3 .
Mouse anti-human BAG2 antibodies are commonly used in research to study the expression and function of BAG2 in various biological contexts. These antibodies are designed to specifically bind to human BAG2, allowing researchers to detect and quantify BAG2 in tissue samples and cell lines. They are valuable tools for investigating the role of BAG2 in health and disease.