Eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4A2 (EIF4A2)

Eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4A2 (EIF4A2) is an ATP-dependent RNA helicase belonging to the DEAD-box protein family and functions as a core component of the eIF4F translation initiation complex[7][2][1]. EIF4A2 facilitates the unwinding of secondary structures in the 5'-untranslated regions (UTRs) of eukaryotic mRNAs, enabling ribosome binding and scanning for the start codon[7][1]. While closely related to EIF4A1, EIF4A2 is not essential for translation initiation but may compensate under certain conditions; its specific roles extend to regulation of development, cell proliferation, and response to cellular stress[2]. Abnormal expression or activity of EIF4A2 has been linked with various cancers, chemoresistance, type 2 diabetes, and neurodevelopmental disorders[5][6][7]. It is a target for small-molecule inhibitors aiming to modulate protein synthesis in cancer therapy, though broad inhibition poses significant therapeutic challenges due to the essential nature of translation in all cells[1][2][7].

Other names

DDX2BEIF4AEIF4FBM-010eIF4A-IIeIF-4A-II

Inhibitors prevent RNA helicase activity, suppressing translation of mRNAs with secondary structures in their 5'-UTR. Disruption of eIF4F complex formation, blocking mRNA cap recognition and translation initiation.