Ceramide synthase 2 (CERS2)

Ceramide synthase 2 is an enzyme encoded by the CERS2 gene that catalyzes the synthesis of very long-chain ceramides, primarily C22–C24, which are key structural and signaling lipids in eukaryotic membranes[1][2][4]. It is the most widely distributed ceramide synthase isoform in human tissues (highly expressed in liver, kidney, brain, and other organs)[4]. Ceramide synthase 2 contributes to the regulation of membrane biophysical properties, participates in myelin sphingolipid synthesis, and modulates cell stress responses such as apoptosis, autophagy, and the unfolded protein response[1][2][4]. Dysfunction or loss of Ceramide synthase 2 disrupts normal sphingolipid homeostasis, leading to compensatory increases in short-chain ceramides, impaired mitochondrial function, membrane fusion defects, and is implicated in diseases including cancer and liver injury[2][4]. Its activity is regulated by signaling lipids such as sphingosine-1-phosphate[4].

Other names

LAG1 longevity assurance homolog 2Tumor metastasis-suppressor gene 1 proteinLass2TRH3

Inhibition of Ceramide synthase 2 leads to reduced very long-chain ceramide synthesis, altered membrane lipid composition, disrupted signaling, mitochondrial dysfunction, and induction of cell stress pathways[1][2][5].