Cytoplasmic linker-associated protein 2 (CLASP2)

Cytoplasmic linker-associated protein 2 (CLASP2) is a microtubule-associated protein that specifically tracks and stabilizes the plus ends of dynamic microtubules, regulating their growth and disassembly[3][2]. CLASP2 contains multiple Tumor Overexpression Gene (TOG) domains, which enable it to interact with tubulin at the growing microtubule ends, where it suppresses microtubule catastrophes and can promote rescue events[2][3]. It is involved in several essential cellular processes, including mitosis (specifically at kinetochores), cell migration, regulation of cell polarity, maintenance of cortical microtubules, and membrane transport. CLASP2 also contributes to insulin signaling by modulating glucose transporter (GLUT4) trafficking and links microtubule dynamics to metabolic regulation, especially in adipocytes[1][3]. Dysfunction or altered expression of CLASP2 is associated with impaired cell division, polarity, and migration, processes central to oncogenesis and possibly neurodegenerative pathways[1][2][3]. As of now, it is not considered an established therapeutic target, nor are there known drugs or approved biomarkers that specifically act on CLASP2.

Other names

CLIP-associating protein 2KIAA0627hOrbit2Protein Orbit homolog 2CLIP-associating protein CLASP2Multiple asters (Mast)-like homolog 2