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.[7]
^Schwer H, Langmann T, Daig R, Becker A, Aslanidis C, Schmitz G (April 1997). "Molecular cloning and characterization of a novel putative carboxylesterase, present in human intestine and liver". Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications. 233 (1): 117–120. doi:10.1006/bbrc.1997.6413. PMID9144407.
^Imai T (June 2006). "Human carboxylesterase isozymes: catalytic properties and rational drug design". Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics. 21 (3): 173–185. doi:10.2133/dmpk.21.173. PMID16858120.
