N-Acetyllactosaminide Beta-1,6-N-Acetylglucosaminyl-Transferase (GCNT2) Antibody

Background

Glucosaminyl (N-acetyl) transferase 2 (GCNT2), also known as the I-branching enzyme, catalyzes the addition of N-acetylglucosamine to linear oligosaccharides, forming the branched I antigen structure that characterizes the I blood group system GCNT2 is predominantly expressed in erythroid cells, epithelial tissues, and during embryonic development, where it is critical for glycan diversity and proper glycoprotein function Mutations in GCNT2 lead to the adult i phenotype, a rare blood group disorder characterized by persistent fetal-type linear glycans, hemolytic anemia, and immune vulnerabilities GCNT2’s activity also influences ocular health, with mutations linked to congenital cataracts and other lens abnormalities Emerging research highlights its role in embryogenesis and cell surface glycosylation, critical for cell signaling, adhesion, and differentiation Dysregulation of GCNT2 expression has further been associated with immune dysfunction and specific cancer pathways, emphasizing its role in glycoprotein branching and cellular homeostasis