Biology:KSR2
KSR2 is a gene which encodes Kinase Suppressor of Ras 2 in humans. [1]
The encoded protein plays a role in energy homeostasis, including fatty acid oxidation, glucose metabolism and basal metabolic rate (BMR). As a result, subsequent mutations in this gene, albeit rare, have been linked to the development of early on-set obesity and insulin resistance.
Variations within the gene and its expression are hypothesized to play a key role in the phenotype of individuals with metabolic disease, alongside leptin-deficiency induced hyperphagia. While the exact mechanism is unclear, it is believed that KSR2 variations result in a disruption of the MAPK/ERK pathway, which can in turn lower the body's BMR. Since this normally accounts for about 70% of the total energy expenditure, a decrease results in excess energy storage, compared to an individual with a normal BMR on an isocaloric diet.[2]
Besides human metabolism, KSR2 is also crucial for ovarian development in the cabbage beetle Colaphellus bowringi.[3]
See also
References
- ↑ "KSR2". Entrez Gene. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/gene/283455.
- ↑ "KSR2 mutations are associated with obesity, insulin resistance, and impaired cellular fuel oxidation". Cell 155 (4): 765–777. November 2013. doi:10.1016/j.cell.2013.09.058. PMID 24209692.
- ↑ "MAPK Signaling Pathway Is Essential for Female Reproductive Regulation in the Cabbage Beetle, Colaphellus bowringi". Cells 11 (10): 1602. May 2022. doi:10.3390/cells11101602. PMID 35626638.
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