GLS2
# GLS2

Glutaminase 2 (liver, mitochondrial) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the GLS2 gene.

## Structure

The GLS2 gene is on the 12th chromosome in humans, with its specific location being 12q13.3. It contains 19 exons.

## Function

GLS2 is a part of the glutaminase family. The protein encoded by this gene is a mitochondrial phosphate-activated glutaminase that catalyzes the hydrolysis of glutamine to stoichiometric amounts of glutamate and ammonia. Originally thought to be liver-specific, this protein has been found in other tissues as well. Alternative splicing results in multiple transcript variants that encode different isoforms.

## Clinical significance

GLS2 has interesting molecular relationships with tumor progression and cancer. Glutaminase 2 negatively regulates the PI3K/AKT signaling and shows tumor suppression activity in human hepatocellular carcinoma. Additionally, silencing of GLS and overexpression of GLS2 genes cooperate in decreasing the proliferation and viability of glioblastoma cells.

