Histone H2B type F-M (H2BW2)

Histone H2B type F-M (H2BW2) is a replication-independent variant of the core histone H2B, part of the nucleosome core particle that organizes chromatin in eukaryotic cells[2]. Two copies each of H2B, H2A, H3, and H4 form an octameric core around which DNA is wound, creating nucleosomes that compact and regulate the accessibility of DNA. H2BW2 belongs to a subclass of H2B isoforms with tissue-specific or specialized functions. Like other H2B variants, it regulates chromatin structure and function through post-translational modifications such as acetylation and ubiquitination, impacting processes including transcription regulation, DNA replication, DNA repair, and maintenance of genomic stability[1][2][3]. H2BW2 has been linked to certain diseases such as Pelizaeus-Merzbacher disease and hematologic cancers, but there is no evidence it is a direct therapeutic target or is modulated by drugs[2]. It is not a receptor, enzyme, or transporter, but rather a structural DNA-binding protein critical for chromatin function and epigenetic regulation[1][2][3].

Other names

Histone H2B.WH2BW2H2BFMH2BMH2B/sHistone H2B.sH2B/Mhistone H2B family member MH2B.M histone