MTMR2On this page: Name Normal func

MTMR2

On this page: Name Normal function Gene families Genetic changes Gene locationAdditional information Other names About genes Glossary definitionsReviewed January 2010

What is the official name of the MTMR2 gene?

The official name of this gene is “myotubularin related protein 2.”MTMR2 is the gene's official symbol. The MTMR2 gene is also known by other names, listed below.Read more about gene names and symbols on the About page.

What is the normal function of the MTMR2 gene?

The MTMR2 gene provides instructions for making an enzyme called myotubularin related protein 2. This enzyme is a phosphatase, which means it helps remove a phosphate group (a cluster of one phosphorus atom and three oxygen atoms) from other substances. Removal of a phosphate group modifies the activity of these substances.The MTMR2 protein modifies substances that act as chemical messengers. These messengers relay signals from receptors on the cell surface to specific compartments inside the cell, through a process called signal transduction. Signal transduction helps cells respond to their environment, for example, by dividing or maturing to take on specialized functions. The MTMR2 protein modifies chemical messengers that help regulate processes such as the transport of fats (lipids) and proteins within the cell.

Does the MTMR2 gene share characteristics with other genes?

The MTMR2 gene belongs to a family of genes called PTP (protein tyrosine phosphatases).A gene family is a group of genes that share important characteristics. Classifying individual genes into families helps researchers describe how genes are related to each other. For more information, seeWhat are gene families? in the Handbook.

How are changes in the MTMR2 gene related to health conditions?

Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease - caused by mutations in the MTMR2 geneResearchers have identified at least 10 MTMR2 gene mutations that cause a form of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease known as type 4B1. Some of these mutations create a premature stop signal in the instructions for making the MTMR2 protein, which results in an abnormally short protein. Other mutations alter the protein's structure by changing one of the building blocks (amino acids) used to make the protein. All of these mutations probably impair the protein's ability to modify chemical messengers, which could disrupt the transport of lipids and proteins.It is unclear how MTMR2 gene mutations lead to the characteristic features of type 4B1 Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. Scientists suggest that specialized cells in the nervous system, called Schwann cells, are particularly vulnerable when the MTMR2 protein is impaired. Schwann cells produce myelin, a protective substance that covers nerves and promotes the rapid transmission of nerve impulses. Schwann cells use large amounts of lipids and proteins to make myelin, relying on efficient transport of these substances within cells. Disrupted transport could affect myelin production, altering the transmission of nerve impulses. A disturbance in nerve impulse transmission is a sign of type 4B1 Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.

Where is the MTMR2 gene located?

Cytogenetic Location: 11q22Molecular Location on chromosome 11: base pairs 95,832,879 to 95,924,206The MTMR2 gene is located on the long (q) arm of chromosome 11 at position 22.More precisely, the MTMR2 gene is located from base pair 95,832,879 to base pair 95,924,206 on chromosome 11.See How do geneticists indicate the location of a gene? in the Handbook.

Where can I find additional information about MTMR2?

You and your healthcare professional may find the following resources about MTMR2 helpful.Educational resources - Information pagesBiochemistry (fifth edition, 2002): Signal-Transduction PathwaysGene Reviews - Clinical summaryGenetic Testing Registry - Repository of genetic test information (1 link)You may also be interested in these resources, which are designed for genetics professionals and researchers.PubMed - Recent literatureOMIM - Genetic disorder catalogResearch Resources - Tools for researchers (5 links)

What other names do people use for the MTMR2 gene or gene products?

CMT4BKIAA1073MTMR2_HUMANSee How are genetic conditions and genes named? in the Handbook.

Where can I find general information about genes?

The Handbook provides basic information about genetics in clear language.What is DNA?What is a gene?How do genes direct the production of proteins?How can gene mutations affect health and development?These links provide additional genetics resources that may be useful.Genetics EducationHuman Genome ProjectResources for Genetics Researchers

What glossary definitions help with understanding MTMR2?

acids ; atom ; cell ; enzyme ; gene ; nervous system ; oxygen ; phosphatase ; phosphate ; phosphorus ;protein ; Schwann cells ; sign ; signal transduction ; transductionYou may find definitions for these and many other terms in the Genetics Home Reference Glossary.See also Understanding Medical Terminology.References (9 links) The resources on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Users seeking information about a personal genetic disease, syndrome, or condition should consult with a qualified healthcare professional. See How can I find a genetics professional in my area? in the Handbook. Reviewed: January 2010Published: November 4, 2014