CTP synthase 2 (CTPS2)

CTP synthase 2 is an enzyme encoded by the *CTPS2* gene and is the **rate-limiting enzyme for the synthesis of cytidine triphosphate (CTP) from uridine triphosphate (UTP)**, catalyzing an ATP-dependent amidation using glutamine or ammonia as nitrogen source[1][2][3]. This step is critical for the de novo synthesis of cytosine nucleotides, central to **DNA and RNA synthesis** and general cellular metabolism. CTPS2 activity is tightly regulated allosterically and can form dynamic intracellular filaments associated with changes in metabolic state[5]. Increased CTPS2 activity is observed in proliferating cancer cells, making it a potential target for selective anticancer chemotherapy[1][3]. Loss of CTPS2 function is lethal in certain developmental contexts, consistent with its essential role in nucleotide biogenesis[6].

Other names

CTP synthetase 2Cytidine triphosphate synthase 2PYRG2 (less common)

Inhibition of CTP synthesis (starving cells of cytidine triphosphate necessary for RNA and DNA synthesis); Feedback inhibition by CTP (end-product inhibits its own synthesis[5])