Human Alpha-1-Acid Glycoprotein 2 (ORM2) Protein

Background

Alpha-1-acid glycoprotein 2 (ORM2), also known as orosomucoid 2, is a major acute-phase protein predominantly produced in the liver and secreted into the bloodstream. ORM2 belongs to the lipocalin family, a group of small proteins characterized by their ability to bind and transport small hydrophobic molecules, including drugs, steroids, and lipids. As an acute-phase reactant, ORM2 levels increase significantly in response to inflammation, infection, trauma, or other physiological stresses, playing a critical role in the systemic inflammatory response.ORM2 is closely related to ORM1 (Alpha-1-acid glycoprotein 1), with both proteins sharing high sequence and structural homology. Together, they constitute the majority of the alpha-1-globulin fraction in human plasma. ORM2 has immunomodulatory functions, influencing immune cell activity, vascular permeability, and interactions between cytokines. Additionally, ORM2 is significant in pharmacology because it binds to various drugs, impacting their bioavailability and pharmacokinetics.