GAD2 Human

GAD2 is one of the two isoforms of glutamate decarboxylase, the other being GAD1 (GAD67). These isoforms are encoded by different genes located on separate chromosomes: GAD2 on chromosome 10 and GAD1 on chromosome 2 . GAD65 and GAD67 differ in their molecular weights, with GAD65 being approximately 65 kDa and GAD67 around 67 kDa . Both isoforms are expressed in the brain, where GABA is used as a neurotransmitter, and in the insulin-producing β-cells of the pancreas .

GAD65 is primarily involved in the rapid synthesis of GABA in response to neuronal activity. It is anchored to the membrane of synaptic vesicles, allowing it to quickly respond to changes in neuronal firing . This rapid response is crucial for the modulation of synaptic transmission and the prevention of excessive neuronal excitation, which can lead to conditions such as epilepsy, anxiety, and other neurological disorders.

The recombinant production of human GAD65 has been explored for various applications, including research into type 1 diabetes, where GAD65 is a key autoantigen . Traditional methods of producing recombinant GAD65 in bacterial or mammalian cell cultures have faced challenges such as low yield and efficiency . However, innovative approaches, such as using the chloroplast transformation of the unicellular alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, have shown promise in overcoming these limitations . This method allows for the rapid mass production of immunologically active GAD65, which can be used for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes .

GAD65 is of significant clinical interest due to its role in type 1 diabetes. Autoantibodies against GAD65 are commonly found in individuals with type 1 diabetes, making it a valuable marker for the prediction and diagnosis of the disease . Additionally, GAD65 has potential therapeutic applications, such as in the development of antigen-specific therapies aimed at modulating the immune response in type 1 diabetes .