Inositol monophosphatase 2 (IMPA2)

Inositol monophosphatase 2 (IMPA2) is a magnesium-dependent enzyme responsible for catalyzing the dephosphorylation of myo-inositol monophosphate to produce free inositol, a critical component in the phosphatidylinositol signaling pathway[4][8]. IMPA2 exists as a homodimer, and its gene is located on chromosome 18p11.2, a region associated with susceptibility to bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other neuropsychiatric conditions[1][3][9]. Although IMPA2 shares significant structural and functional similarity with IMPA1, it differs in substrate specificity, catalytic properties, and tissue distribution. IMPA2 is expressed at high levels in specific brain regions and renal tubules[7]. The enzyme is inhibited by lithium, a drug widely used in the treatment of bipolar disorder, highlighting its relevance to mood stabilization and psychiatric pharmacology[4][9]. Beyond the central nervous system, recent studies indicate that IMPA2 may promote cellular proliferation and migration in cervical cancer, implicating it as a potential oncogene[5]. Genetic and molecular variation in IMPA2 can influence susceptibility to both psychiatric and oncological disorders.

Other names

IMPA2IMP 2IMPase 2Inositol-1(or 4)-monophosphatase 2Myo-inositol monophosphatase 2myo-inositol monophosphatase A2inosine monophosphatase 2inositol(myo)-1(or 4)-monophosphatase 2

Nonselective, uncompetitive inhibition by lithium; Competitive inhibition by L-690,330