Carbonic anhydrase 2, 4, 12, 14 (CA2, CA4, CA12, CA14)

Carbonic anhydrases are a large family of zinc-dependent metalloenzymes that catalyze the reversible hydration of carbon dioxide to bicarbonate and a proton, a critical reaction in pH regulation and respiratory gas exchange. These enzymes are distributed in nearly all tissues and have multiple human isoforms, each with distinct tissue localization and physiological roles. Carbonic anhydrase II is a highly active, cytosolic enzyme found in red blood cells and many tissues; carbonic anhydrase IV is membrane-bound and important in the kidney and eye; carbonic anhydrase XII is a transmembrane enzyme involved in fluid balance and cancer; carbonic anhydrase XIV has been implicated in brain and kidney function. Selective inhibition of these enzymes has important therapeutic applications in ophthalmology, neurology, oncology, and nephrology

Other names

CA2CAIICA4CAIVCA12CAXIICA14CAXIVEC 4.2.1.1

Inhibition of the enzyme’s active site (Zn²⁺-dependent hydration/dehydration of CO₂) by sulfonamide or related groups, reducing the catalytic conversion of CO₂ to bicarbonate and protons