C4ST-2 Activators

Chondroitin 4-sulfotransferase 2 (C4ST-2) is an enzyme that plays a vital role in the biosynthesis of chondroitin sulfate, a key component of the extracellular matrix found in connective tissues such as cartilage. This enzyme specifically catalyzes the transfer of sulfate groups to the C4 position of the N-acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc) residues in chondroitin. The sulfation pattern of chondroitin sulfate is critical for its biological function, influencing its ability to interact with a variety of proteins, including growth factors and cytokines.

C4ST-2 is part of the glycosaminoglycan (GAG) biosynthetic pathway, which is essential for creating diverse GAG chains that contribute to the structural integrity and function of the extracellular matrix. The activity of C4ST-2 thus affects the physical properties of cartilage, such as elasticity and resistance to compression, and plays a role in cellular signaling pathways that govern tissue development, maintenance, and repair.The expression of C4ST-2 is regulated by various factors, including developmental signals, cytokines, and growth factors. Alterations in C4ST-2 activity have been implicated in pathological conditions such as osteoarthritis, where changes in chondroitin sulfate composition can affect cartilage function and integrity.