Ribonucleoside-diphosphate reductase small subunit (RRM2)

Ribonucleoside-diphosphate reductase small subunit (RRM2) is an essential component of the ribonucleotide reductase holoenzyme, which catalyzes the reduction of ribonucleoside diphosphates to deoxyribonucleotides—the building blocks for DNA synthesis and repair[1][2][3][5]. This enzyme is composed of two main subunits: a large catalytic (RRM1) and a small radical-generating (RRM2), associating to form the active tetramer. The activity of RRM2 is cell cycle-dependent, tightly regulated, and linked to cell proliferation, making it critical for both normal cellular division and pathological conditions including cancer. Therapeutically, inhibitors of RRM2 are used as anticancer and antiviral agents. The enzyme's role in maintaining balanced dNTP pools is crucial for genomic stability, and its dysregulation is associated with tumorigenesis and resistance to therapy[2][1][3][8].

Other names

Ribonucleotide reductase small subunitRibonucleoside-diphosphate reductase subunit M2RNR small subunitRRM2 protein

Inhibition of enzyme activity (blocks deoxyribonucleotide production, halts DNA synthesis) Formation of inactive radical Allosteric blockade