Transketolase-like protein 2 (TKTL2)

Transketolase-like protein 2 (TKTL2) is one of three human genes encoding proteins structurally related to transketolase, an enzyme active in the non-oxidative branch of the pentose phosphate pathway[1][2]. TKTL2 is predicted—and supported by structural homology modeling—to act as a bona fide transketolase enzyme, with key active site residues and binding domains conserved, facilitating the transfer of two-carbon units between sugar phosphates via a thiamine pyrophosphate (TPP)-dependent mechanism[1]. The evidence suggests TKTL2 is cytoplasmic and can bind thiamine pyrophosphate, playing a putative role in cellular carbohydrate metabolism. Recent research supports TKTL2 as a novel therapeutic target, with altered expression or activity potentially relevant in the pathogenesis of diabetes and various cancers[1][2]. However, the physiological and clinical significance of TKTL2 remains under investigation; no drugs are currently known to selectively target it, but studies on the more established transketolase (TKT) enzyme suggest possible future avenues.

Other names

Transketolase-like 2TKTL2FLJ32975DKFZP434L1717similar to transketolasetestis tissue sperm-binding protein Li 39a

Enzyme inhibition (inferred from canonical transketolase targeting strategies, not specific to TKTL2)