Carboxylesterase 2 (CES2)

Carboxylesterase 2 is a member of a large multigene family. The enzymes encoded by these genes are responsible for the hydrolysis of ester- and amide-bond-containing drugs such as cocaine and heroin. They also hydrolyze long-chain fatty acid esters and thioesters.

The specific function of this enzyme has not yet been determined; however, it is speculated that carboxylesterases may play a role in lipid metabolism and/or the blood-brain barrier system. Two alternatively spliced transcript variants encoding distinct isoforms have been found for this gene.Preferentially expressed in intestine with moderate expression in liver. Within the intestine, highest expression is found in small intestine with lower expression in colon and rectum.