Non-Metastatic Cells 2 (NME2) is a protein encoded by the NME2 gene in humans. It is part of the NME/NM23 family, which is known for its role in inhibiting metastasis in various types of cancer. The recombinant form of this protein is produced through genetic engineering techniques, allowing for its use in research and therapeutic applications.
NME2 is a nucleoside diphosphate kinase (NDPK) that plays a crucial role in the synthesis of nucleoside triphosphates other than ATP. It is involved in various cellular processes, including:
The protein functions as a hexamer and is known to interact with other proteins to exert its effects. Its role in inhibiting metastasis is particularly significant, as it helps prevent the spread of cancer cells to other parts of the body.
The anti-metastatic properties of NME2 are attributed to several mechanisms:
NME2 has been studied extensively for its potential therapeutic applications. Its ability to inhibit metastasis makes it a promising candidate for cancer treatment. Research has shown that higher levels of NME2 are associated with better prognosis in cancer patients.
The recombinant form of NME2 is produced using bacterial or mammalian expression systems. This involves inserting the NME2 gene into a plasmid vector, which is then introduced into host cells. The host cells express the protein, which can be purified and used for various applications, including: