GSTM2 Antibody

Members of the glutathione S-transferase (GST) family of proteins function in the detoxification of xenobiotics to protect cells against toxicant-induced damage. There are eight families of GST proteins, each of which are composed of proteins that have a variety of functions throughout the cell. The GSTM proteins (GSTM1-GSTM5 in human and GSTM1-GSTM7 in mouse) are members of the mu class of enzymes that conjugate with glutathione and function in the detoxification of carcinogens, environmental toxins and products of oxidative stress. The genes encoding the mu class of enzymes are organized in a gene cluster on chromosome 1p13.3 and are known to be highly polymorphic. These genetic variations can change an individual's susceptibility to carcinogens and toxins as well as affect the toxicity and efficacy of certain drugs. Null mutations of this class mu gene have been linked with an increase in a number of cancers, likely due to an increased susceptibility to environmental toxins and carcinogens. Multiple protein isoforms are encoded by transcript variants of this gene. GSTM2 is specific for muscle hence the alternate name GST muscle antibody.