UCP 2 gene polymorphisms in obesity and diabetes, and the role of UCP 2 in cancer

Mitochondria are the primary sites for ATP synthesis and free radical generation in organisms. Abnormal mitochondrial metabolism contributes to many diseases, including obesity, diabetes and cancer. UCP 2 is an ion/anion transporter located in mitochondrial inner membrane, and has a crucial role in regulating oxidative stress, cellular metabolism, cell proliferation and cell death. Polymorphisms of the UCP 2 gene have been associated with diabetes and obesity because UCP 2 is involved in energy expenditure and insulin secretion. Moreover, UCP 2 gene expression is often amplified in cancers, and increased UCP 2 expression contributes to cancer growth, cancer metabolism, anti‐apoptosis and drug resistance. The present review summarizes the latest findings of UCP 2 with respect to obesity, diabetes and cancer.