CES2: A Drug Target and Biomarker for Cocaine Use (G8824)

Target Name: CES2

NCBI ID: G8824

CES2

CES2: A Drug Target and Biomarker for Cocaine Use

Cocaine, a highly addictive stimulant drug, has a profound impact on the brain and central nervous system. The cocaine molecule has a unique structure that binds to specific receptors in the brain, leading to a euphoric and pleasant feeling. However, this effect can also lead to addiction and negative consequences for individuals and communities alike. The CES2 gene, located on chromosome 10, has been identified as a potential drug target and biomarker for cocaine use.

The CES2 gene encodes a protein known as the Cocaine Esterase (CES), which is a enzyme that modifies the cocaine molecule. The CES2 gene is expressed in the brain and other tissues, including the heart, liver, and blood vessels. It is also expressed in the hair, sweat, and nails, which may indicate that it plays a role in the delivery and distribution of cocaine into the body.

Studies have shown that individuals with certain genetic variations in the CES2 gene are more likely to develop a dependence on cocaine. For example, individuals with the rs6221238 polymorphism, which is associated with reduced activity of the CES2 enzyme, may be less responsive to the psychoactive effects of cocaine. This suggests that modifying the CES2 enzyme may be a potential strategy for treating cocaine addiction.

In addition to its potential as a drug target, the CES2 gene has also been identified as a potential biomarker for cocaine use. The CES2 enzyme is involved in the synthesis and degradation of the cocaine molecule, which may provide a sensitive target for detecting the presence of this drug in the body. For example, individuals who are dependent on cocaine may have lower levels of CES2 in their bloodstreams compared to non-using individuals.

While there are currently no approved drugs that specifically target the CES2 enzyme for treating addiction, research into its potential as a drug target and biomarker is ongoing. Studies are being conducted to determine the effects of modifying the CES2 enzyme on the levels of cocaine in the brain and the potential for these modifications to lead to improvements in treatment outcomes.

In conclusion, the CES2 gene has been identified as a potential drug target and biomarker for cocaine use. Modifying the CES2 enzyme may be a promising strategy for treating addiction and reducing the negative consequences associated with this behavior. Further research is needed to determine the effectiveness of these modifications and to develop safe and effective treatments for individuals struggling with cocaine addiction.

Protein Name: Carboxylesterase 2

Functions: Involved in the detoxification of xenobiotics and in the activation of ester and amide prodrugs (PubMed:9169443). Shows high catalytic efficiency for hydrolysis of cocaine, 4-methylumbelliferyl acetate, heroin and 6-monoacetylmorphine (PubMed:9169443). Hydrolyzes aspirin, substrates with large alcohol group and small acyl group and endogenous lipids such as triacylglycerol (PubMed:28677105). Converts monoacylglycerides to free fatty acids and glycerol. Hydrolyzes of 2-arachidonoylglycerol and prostaglandins (PubMed:21049984)

The "CES2 Target / Biomarker Review Report" is a customizable review of hundreds up to thousends of related scientific research literature by AI technology, covering specific information about CES2 comprehensively, including but not limited to:
•   general information;
•   protein structure and compound binding;
•   protein biological mechanisms;
•   its importance;
•   the target screening and validation;
•   expression level;
•   disease relevance;
•   drug resistance;
•   related combination drugs;
•   pharmacochemistry experiments;
•   related patent analysis;
•   advantages and risks of development, etc.
The report is helpful for project application, drug molecule design, research progress updates, publication of research papers, patent applications, etc. If you are interested to get a full version of this report, please feel free to contact us at BD@silexon.ai

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