Retinol binding protein 2 (RBP2)

Retinol binding protein 2 is a small, soluble, cytoplasmic lipocalin protein (~16 kDa, 134 amino acids) expressed primarily in enterocytes of the small intestine[4]. It acts as an intracellular carrier for all-trans-retinol and other retinoids, facilitating their uptake, transport, and metabolism in the gut and, more recently discovered, also binds and transports long-chain monoacylglycerols (MAGs), including the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol[1][2][3][5]. Its ligand specificity arises from its β-barrel structural fold, the composition of the binding cavity, and flexible portal regions. RBP2's canonical function is essential for retinoid homeostasis, with broader implications for lipid metabolism and signaling. Although there is no direct therapeutic targeting of RBP2, alterations in its function may affect metabolic health[1][2][3][4][5].

Other names

Cellular retinol binding protein IICRBP-IICRBP2RBP2

Not applicable; drugs targeting RBP2 are not established, but theoretical action would be through modulation of retinoid or lipid binding/transport