Complement C1q-like protein 2 (C1QL2)

Complement C1q-like protein 2 (C1QL2) is a secreted C1q-domain containing protein that functions as a synaptic organizer, predominantly expressed in select neuronal populations within the brain[1][3][6]. It forms trimeric and higher-order oligomeric complexes with unique structural features, including calcium-binding sites, and interacts with receptor proteins such as BAI3 (brain-specific angiogenesis inhibitor 3), a GPCR regulating dendritic morphology and synaptic stability[1][2]. C1QL2 organizes postsynaptic kainate receptor complexes by binding to subunits such as GluK2 and GluK4, directing their synaptic localization and modulating excitatory transmission, particularly at hippocampal mossy fiber to CA3 synapses and Purkinje cell synapses[3][4][6]. Genetic studies implicate C1QL2 in neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders, including epilepsy and autism, highlighting its critical role in synapse maturation, neurotransmission, and neural plasticity[3][4][5][6].

Other names

Complement C1q-like protein 2C1QL2C1q/TNF-related protein 10CTRP10C1q and tumor necrosis factor-related protein 10C1QTNF10Complement component 1, q subcomponent-like 2