Anthrax toxin receptor 2 (ANTXR2) messenger RNA (ANTXR2 mRNA)

Anthrax toxin receptor 2 (ANTXR2) messenger RNA (mRNA) is the transcript of the ANTXR2 gene, which encodes a type I transmembrane protein also known as Capillary Morphogenesis Gene 2 (CMG2) [Wikipedia, Maayanlab]. This mRNA serves as the essential template for the synthesis of the primary receptor used by Bacillus anthracis for toxin internalization into host cells [MedlinePlus, NIH]. Beyond its role in anthrax pathogenesis, the protein translated from this mRNA is critical for maintaining extracellular matrix (ECM) homeostasis, basement membrane stability, and the regulation of angiogenesis [MDPI, MedlinePlus]. Mutations in the ANTXR2 mRNA or gene are the primary cause of Hyaline Fibromatosis Syndrome (HFS), a rare and severe connective tissue disorder characterized by hyaline deposition [MedlinePlus, UniProt]. In clinical research, ANTXR2 mRNA levels are often elevated in conditions such as endometriosis and various cancers (e.g., non-small cell lung cancer), where they correlate with disease progression and poor prognosis [PubMed, NIH]. Therapeutic strategies targeting the mRNA, including siRNA and antisense oligonucleotides, are being explored to modulate ANTXR2 protein expression for the treatment of anthrax infection and the inhibition of pathological vascularization and fibrosis [Patsnap, NIH].

Other names

CMG2 mRNACapillary morphogenesis gene 2 mRNAANTXR2 transcriptANTXR cell adhesion molecule 2 mRNA

RNA interference (siRNA) or antisense-mediated degradation (ASO) to reduce the expression of the ANTXR2 protein, thereby inhibiting its function as a toxin receptor or its role in pathological angiogenesis and fibrosis.