IRP2, or Iron Regulatory Protein 2, is a key protein involved in the regulation of iron homeostasis in the body. It helps control the levels of iron by binding to specific RNA sequences in the mRNA of proteins that are important for iron metabolism. When iron levels are low, IRP2 stabilizes these mRNAs, promoting the production of proteins that increase iron uptake and storage. In addition to its role in iron regulation, IRP2 is also involved in cellular responses to oxidative stress. It can influence the expression of genes related to antioxidant defense, helping cells manage damage caused by reactive oxygen species. This dual function makes IRP2 an important player in maintaining cellular health and iron balance.