Anthrax toxin receptor 2 (CMG2)

Anthrax toxin receptor 2 (ANTXR2), commonly known as Capillary morphogenesis gene 2 (CMG2), is a type I transmembrane protein that serves as the primary cell-surface receptor for the anthrax toxin. It facilitates the entry of the toxin's protective antigen (PA) into host cells through a clathrin-dependent endocytic pathway. Beyond its role in pathogenesis, CMG2 is a critical regulator of extracellular matrix (ECM) homeostasis, particularly in the lysosomal degradation of collagen VI. Loss-of-function mutations in the ANTXR2 gene are the underlying cause of Hyaline Fibromatosis Syndrome (HFS), a rare and severe genetic disorder characterized by the systemic accumulation of hyaline material. In the context of oncology, CMG2 is highly expressed in tumor-associated endothelial cells and is essential for growth factor-induced angiogenesis and endothelial cell chemotaxis. Consequently, CMG2 has emerged as a therapeutic target for both anthrax antitoxin development and anti-angiogenic cancer treatments. Current research explores the use of soluble receptor decoys, inhibitory peptides, and DARPins to modulate its activity in disease states.

Other names

Anthrax toxin receptor 2ANTXR2CMG-2Capillary morphogenesis protein 2HFSISH

Receptor antagonism, Decoy receptor binding, Inhibition of endothelial cell chemotaxis, Proteasome-mediated rescue of mutant protein folding