MT2A, Official Symbol MT2Aprovided by HGNC Official Full Name metallothionein 2Aprovided by HGNC Primary source HGNC:HGNC:7406 See related Ensembl:ENSG00000125148 MIM:156360; AllianceGenome:HGNC:7406 Gene type protein coding RefSeq status REVIEWED Organism Homo sapiens Lineage Eukaryota; Metazoa; Chordata; Craniata; Vertebrata; Euteleostomi; Mammalia; Eutheria; Euarchontoglires; Primates; Haplorrhini; Catarrhini; Hominidae; Homo Also known as MT2; MT-2; MT-II Summary This gene is a member of the metallothionein family of genes. Proteins encoded by this gene family are low in molecular weight, are cysteine-rich, lack aromatic residues, and bind divalent heavy metal ions, altering the intracellular concentration of heavy metals in the cell. These proteins act as anti-oxidants, protect against hydroxyl free radicals, are important in homeostatic control of metal in the cell, and play a role in detoxification of heavy metals. The encoded protein interacts with the protein encoded by the homeobox containing 1 gene in some cell types, controlling intracellular zinc levels, affecting apoptotic and autophagy pathways. Some polymorphisms in this gene are associated with an increased risk of cancer. [provided by RefSeq, Sep 2017] Expression Broad expression in adrenal (RPKM 718.8), liver (RPKM 608.8) and 20 other tissues See more Orthologs mouse all