Hyaluronan synthase 2 (HAS2)

Hyaluronan synthase 2 is an enzyme encoded by the HAS2 gene in humans. It catalyzes the synthesis of hyaluronan (hyaluronic acid), a high molecular weight unbranched polysaccharide that is a major component of the extracellular matrix. The enzyme operates at the inner surface of the plasma membrane, extruding newly synthesized hyaluronan chains into the extracellular space. Hyaluronan plays critical roles in tissue architecture by providing structural support, facilitating cell migration during wound healing and tissue repair, lubricating joints, and serving as a scaffold for blood vessel growth and fibroblast ingrowth. Altered expression or activity of HAS2 has been linked to pathological conditions such as cancer metastasis—through its role in cell motility—and inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis due to changes in extracellular matrix composition.

Other names

HAS2Hyaluronic acid synthase 2Hyaluronate synthase 2HA synthase 2