Achaete-scute complex homolog 2 (ASCL2)

Achaete-scute complex homolog 2 (ASCL2) is a maternally expressed, imprinted gene encoding a basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factor that acts as a master regulator in development and cell fate determination[1][4]. ASCL2 activates gene transcription via E box DNA motifs, often forming heterodimers with other bHLH proteins[1][4]. It is essential for neuronal precursor specification in both the central and peripheral nervous systems, for trophoblast and placental development (particularly the formation of glycogen trophoblast and spongiotrophoblast cells), and the maintenance of somatic and intestinal stem cells[1][2][4]. ASCL2 is also involved in follicular T-helper cell differentiation and epidermal development[4]. Loss of ASCL2 leads to failures in placental development and embryonic lethality in mice, while its upregulation has been implicated in several cancers, most notably colorectal and breast carcinomas, where it promotes tumor cell self-renewal and proliferation[1][3]. There are no known clinically approved drugs directly targeting ASCL2, though its expression is explored as a biomarker and a possible target in oncology research[1][3].

Other names

ASCL2Mash2HASH2ASH2bHLHa45

Not drug-targeted in current clinical use; but inhibition of ASCL2/knockdown associated with decreased cell proliferation, migration, or tumor growth in preclinical cancer models[3][1]