Ceramide synthase 2 (CERS2) (CERS2)

Ceramide synthase 2 (CERS2), also known as Longevity assurance homolog 2 (LASS2), is a transmembrane protein located in the endoplasmic reticulum that plays a pivotal role in the sphingolipid biosynthetic pathway (UniProt: Q96G23). It specifically catalyzes the synthesis of very-long-chain ceramides, such as C22 and C24, which are essential components of cellular membranes and signaling molecules (PubMed: 19118208). CERS2 is widely expressed, with high levels found in the liver, kidney, and brain, where it contributes to the maintenance of myelin and hepatic homeostasis (PubMed: 22416138). In the context of disease, CERS2 often functions as a tumor suppressor; its downregulation is frequently observed in various cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma and bladder cancer, correlating with increased invasion and metastasis (PubMed: 25605101). Conversely, alterations in CERS2 activity are implicated in neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's disease and multiple sclerosis due to its role in sphingolipid balance (PubMed: 23519211). While no FDA-approved drugs specifically target CERS2, research compounds like Fumonisin B1 and synthetic inhibitors are used to study its therapeutic potential in metabolic and oncological settings.

Other names

Longevity assurance homolog 2LASS2CerS2Longevity assurance gene 2 protein homologTumor metastasis-suppressor gene 1 protein

Inhibition of ceramide synthase activity to modulate the synthesis of very-long-chain ceramides (PubMed: 19118208).