Bestrophin-2 Background Information Bestrophin-2, also known as BEST2 or VMD2L1 (Vitelliform macular dystrophy 2-like protein 1), is a 509 amino acid member of the Bestrophin family of proteins. Members of the Bestrophin family are transmembrane proteins that contain a high percentage of aromatic residues, a conserved RFP (Arg-Phe-Pro) motif and they function as anion channels. Bestrophin-2 forms a calcium-sensitive chloride channel located within the cell membrane. It is also believed that Bestrophin-2 channels may also conduct other physiological anions such as bicarbonate. Bestrophin-2 is mainly expressed in retinal pigment epithelium and colon.
