Mannan-binding lectin-associated serine protease 2 (MASP2) mRNA (MASP2 mRNA)

Mannan-binding lectin-associated serine protease 2 (MASP2) mRNA is the transcript responsible for the synthesis of the MASP-2 enzyme, a key initiator of the lectin pathway within the complement system (UniProt P48740). MASP-2 is primarily produced in the liver and circulates in the blood, where it activates complement components C4 and C2 upon binding to pattern recognition molecules (PubMed: 11067616). Dysregulation or overactivation of the lectin pathway is a significant driver of pathology in several glomerular and vascular diseases, including IgA nephropathy and thrombotic microangiopathies (PubMed: 34161775). Therapeutic strategies targeting MASP2 mRNA, such as antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) like IONIS-MASP2-LRx, aim to reduce the hepatic production of the MASP-2 protein, thereby dampening the lectin pathway's contribution to tissue damage (Ionis Pharmaceuticals). This approach offers a highly specific method of complement modulation compared to broad-spectrum inhibitors, potentially treating conditions like lupus nephritis and COVID-19 complications (PubMed: 32631910). By lowering the systemic levels of the protease, these therapies seek to halt the inflammatory cascade before it causes irreversible organ damage.

Other names

MASP-2 mRNAMannose-binding lectin-associated serine protease 2 mRNAsMAP mRNAMAP19 mRNA

Antisense oligonucleotide-mediated degradation of mRNA to inhibit protein synthesis