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LDL receptor related protein 2

The LRP2 gene provides instructions for making a protein called megalin, which functions as a receptor. Receptor proteins have specific sites into which certain other proteins, called ligands, fit like keys into locks. Together, ligands and their receptors trigger signals that affect cell development and function. Megalin has many ligands involved in various body processes, including the absorption of vitamins A and D, immune functioning, stress response, and the transport of fats in the bloodstream.

Normal function

The LRP2 gene provides instructions for making a protein called megalin, which functions as a receptor. Receptor proteins have specific sites into which certain other proteins, called ligands, fit like keys into locks. Together, ligands and their receptors trigger signals that affect cell development and function. Megalin has many ligands involved in various body processes, including the absorption of vitamins A and D, immune functioning, stress response, and the transport of fats in the bloodstream.

Megalin is embedded in the membrane of cells that line the surfaces and cavities of the body (epithelial cells). The receptor helps move its ligands from the cell surface into the cell (endocytosis), and is also involved in transporting the ligands of a related receptor called cubulin. Megalin is active in the development and function of many parts of the body, including the brain and spinal cord (central nervous system), eyes, ears, lungs, intestine, reproductive system, and the small tubes in the kidneys where urine is formed (renal tubules).

Conditions referring to this gene or chromosome

Other names

calcium sensor protein

DBS

glycoprotein 330 (gp330)

gp330

Heymann nephritis antigen homolog

low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 2

LRP2_HUMAN

megalin

Related patient information and medicines

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Familial hypercholesterolaemia

Familial ... There are three main genes that can be involved in FH: LDL receptor genes: this is the most common faulty gene in FH. It means there aren't enough LDL receptors, so cholesterol builds up in the blood. APOB gene (apolipoprotein B): a fault with this gene means LDL cholesterol can’t bind well to LDL receptors so that blood levels of LDL.

Chronic kidney disease

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Chronic kidney disease

This is because they can prevent further worsening of the kidney function. These medicines are called: Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors (for example, captopril, enalapril, ramipril, lisinopril); and Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), such as losartan, valsartan, candesartan, telmisartan). SGLT2 inhibitors. A group of medicines.

High cholesterol

Patient information leaflet

High cholesterol

Cholesterol is a fat chemical (lipid) that is made in the cells in your body. Many different cells make cholesterol but cells in the liver make about a quarter of the total. When low-density lipoproteins (LDL choles... Higher levels of LDL cholesterol in your blood cause an increased risk of lipoprotein disorders and cardiovascular disease (heart.

Nephrotic syndrome

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Nephrotic syndrome

Nephrotic syndrome is a condition where the 'filters' in the kidney become 'leaky' and large amounts of protein leak from the blood into the urine. The main symptom is fluid retention (oedema) which is mainly due to the low protein level in the blood. Various diseases can cause nephrotic syndrome, some more serious than others. Treatment and.

Can I take Evolocumab and Ezetimibe together?

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Can I take Evolocumab and Ezetimibe together?

Taking evolocumab and ezetimibe together is a common and safe combination. Both medicines work to lower your 'bad' cholesterol (LDL), and using them together helps lower it more effectively than using either one alone. There is no evidence that they interfere with each other in a harmful way. Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check.

Diabetic kidney disease

Patient information leaflet

Diabetic kidney disease

Diabetic kidney disease is one of the causes of chronic kidney disease , a long-term condition where the kidneys do not work as well as they should. In diabetic kidney disease, the filters of the kidneys, the glomeruli, become damaged. Because of this the kidneys 'leak' abnormal amounts of protein from the blood into the urine. The main protein.

Further reading and references

Article history

The information on this page is written and peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
  • 12 Apr 2023 | Latest version
  • 1 May 2009 | Originally published

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