Nanos2 Background Information
Nanos2, also known as NOS2, is a 138 amino acid protein that contains one nanos-type zinc finger. The nanos-type zinc finger is comprised of two C2HC motifs, each of which are capable of binding one molecule of zinc and each of which work in tandem to play essential roles in translational regulation events. Expressed specifically in male germ cells, Nanos2 is essential for spermatogonia formation and is required to support the self-renewal, proliferation and overall development of proximal germ cells. Additionally, Nanos2 is thought to regulate the translation of target mRNAs, possibly by associating with the 3’-UTR of select transcripts. The gene encoding human Nanos2 maps to chromosome 19, which is the genetic home for a number of immunoglobulin superfamily members, including the killer cell and leukocyte Ig-like receptors, a number of ICAMs, the CEACAM and PSG family and Fc receptors (FcRs).
