2-5-oligoadenylate synthetase 2(OAS2) Homo sapiens This gene encodes a member of the 2-5A synthetase family, essential proteins involved in the innate immune response to viral infection. The encoded protein is induced by interferons and uses adenosine triphosphate in 2-specific nucleotidyl transfer reactions to synthesize 2,5-oligoadenylates (2-5As). These molecules activate latent RNase L, which results in viral RNA degradation and the inhibition of viral replication. The three known members of this gene family are located in a cluster on chromosome 12. Alternatively spliced transcript variants encoding different isoforms have been described. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008],catalytic activity:Binds double-stranded RNA and polymerizes ATP into PPP(A2P5A)N oligomers, which activate the latent RNase L that, when activated, cleaves single-stranded RNAs.,function:May play a role in mediating resistance to virus infection, control of cell growth, differentiation, and apoptosis.,induction:By interferons.,similarity:Belongs to the 2-5A synthetase family.,subcellular location:Associated with different subcellular fractions such as mitochondrial, nuclear, and rough/smooth microsomal fractions.,subunit:Homodimer.,
