TOP2A Antibody

Background:

This gene encodes a DNA topoisomerase, an enzyme thatcontrols and alters the topologic states of DNA duringtranscription. This nuclear enzyme is involved in processes such aschromosome condensation, chromatid separation, and the relief oftorsional stress that occurs during DNA transcription andreplication. It catalyzes the transient breaking and rejoining oftwo strands of duplex DNA which allows the strands to pass throughone another, thus altering the topology of DNA. Two forms of thisenzyme exist as likely products of a gene duplication event. Thegene encoding this form, alpha, is localized to chromosome 17 andthe beta gene is localized to chromosome 3. The gene encoding thisenzyme functions as the target for several anticancer agents and avariety of mutations in this gene have been associated with thedevelopment of drug resistance. Reduced activity of this enzyme mayalso play a role in ataxia-telangiectasia.