Atlastin GTPase 2 (ATL2)

Atlastin GTPase 2 (ATL2) is a membrane-anchored, dynamin-like GTPase that mediates the GTP-dependent homotypic fusion of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membranes, maintaining the continuous and dynamic tubular network of the ER[1][3][4]. ATL2 activity is essential for ER network integrity, Golgi organization, and proper organelle and lipid droplet distribution[1][2][4]. ATL2 also helps recruit autophagy machinery to ER-associated sites and supports the formation of replication organelles in certain viral infections[2]. Although mutations in its paralog ATL1 are more strongly linked to hereditary spastic paraplegia, ATL2 is ubiquitously expressed in peripheral tissues and any defect can disturb ER morphology with important cellular consequences[1][4]. ATL2 functions by forming loose homodimers in a GTP-dependent manner; subsequent GTP hydrolysis tightens the dimer to drive membrane fusion, after which the dimer disassembles and ATL2 resets for further cycles[1][4]. No known drugs targeting ATL2 are clinically validated as of the current knowledge base.

Other names

Atlastin-2ARL6IP2ATL-2atlastin2ADP-ribosylation factor-like protein 6-interacting protein 2ARL3IP2aip-2