Metallothionein-2: An emerging target in inflammatory diseases and cancers

Metallothionein-2 (MT-2) was originally discovered as a mediator of zinc homeostasis and cadmium detoxification. However, MT-2 has recently received increased attention because altered expression of MT-2 is closely related to various diseases such as asthma and cancers. Several pharmacological strategies have been developed to inhibit or modify MT-2, revealing its potential as drug target in diseases. Therefore, a better understanding of the mechanisms of MT-2 action is warranted to improve drug development for potential clinical applications. In this review, we highlight recent advances in determining the protein structure, regulation, binding partners, and new functions of MT-2 in inflammatory diseases and cancers.