3'-5' RNA helicase YTHDC2 (YTHDC2)

3'-5' RNA helicase YTHDC2 is a large, multi-domain RNA helicase that binds RNA through its YTH domain, specifically recognizing N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modifications, and through additional RNA-binding domains including an R3H domain and ankyrin repeats[3][4][6]. YTHDC2 is unique among YTH family proteins in containing a functional helicase module and plays a key role in promoting the mitotic-to-meiotic switch and progression through meiotic prophase during gametogenesis in both male and female germ lines[1][2][3][4]. It enhances the translation efficiency of its direct RNA targets and decreases their mRNA abundance, acting partially via interaction with the RNA degradation machinery such as the exonuclease XRN1 and helicases UPF1 and MOV10[1][6]. Loss of YTHDC2 function causes infertility in mammals due to failure of germ cells to progress past the zygotene stage of meiosis[1][2]. Although initially identified as an m6A reader, recent studies show it also binds other U-rich or UG-rich RNA motifs, and its meiotic regulatory function depends critically on its helicase activity[2][3]. There are currently no drugs specifically targeting this protein, but given its role in RNA metabolism and gametogenesis, it is emerging as a potential target for reproductive and cancer-related research[1][3][4][6].

Other names

YTH N6-methyladenosine RNA binding protein C2Probable ATP-dependent RNA helicase YTHDC2CAHLhYTHDC2FLJ2194FLJ10053DKFZp564A186YTH domain-containing protein 2CsA-associated helicase-like proteinYTH domain containing 2

Not established for drugs; for biology: Recognition and binding of m6A-modified RNA and helicase-dependent regulation of RNA metabolism[1][2][3][6].