Slc31a2-KO Mouse

Slc31a2, also known as CTR2, is a member of the SLC31 family of solute carriers involved in regulating intracellular copper (Cu²⁺) concentration. Along with SLC31A1, it is part of a protein network maintaining Cu²⁺ homeostasis [1]. SLC31A2 is mainly found in the intracellular membranes of the late endosome and lysosome, though its specific function remains unknown [1].

Studies have associated SLC31A2 with several diseases. In atherosclerosis, its expression was significantly higher in plaques compared to normal intimae, suggesting its potential as a diagnostic biomarker [2]. In hepatocellular carcinoma, the DNA-methylation level of a site in the promoter region of SLC31A2 was different between tumor and normal tissue, indicating a possible role in the disease's advancement [3]. In melanoma, SLC31A2 was associated with resistance to most chemotherapeutic agents [4]. In lung adenocarcinoma, a gene signature including SLC31A2 showed good clinical value in prognostic assessment [5]. It was also identified in gene signatures related to responses to platin chemotherapy agents [6].

In conclusion, while the specific function of SLC31A2 is yet to be fully elucidated, research indicates its potential importance in multiple disease areas such as atherosclerosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, melanoma, and lung adenocarcinoma. These disease-related associations, identified through various studies, contribute to our understanding of the role SLC31A2 may play in different biological processes related to these diseases.