Cryptochrome 2 (CRY2)

Cryptochrome-2 is a protein responsible for blue-light mediated cotyledon/leaf expansion. CRY2 overexpression in transgenic plants results in a large increase in blue light-stimulated cotyledon expansion. The plants will have many broad leaves and no flowers, rather than a few primary leaves with a flower emerging from them. Acts, in conjunction with CRY2, in maintaining period length and circadian rhythmicity. Has no photolyase activity. Capable of translocating circadian clock core proteins such as PER proteins to the nucleus. Expressed in all tissues examined including fetal brain, fibroblasts, heart, brain, placenta, lung, liver, sketal muscle, kidney, pancreas, spleen, thymus, prostate, testis, ovary, small intestine, colon and leukocytes. Highest levels in heart and skeletal muscle.It is also found in plants.