Family with sequence similarity 171 member A2 (FAM171A2)

Family with sequence similarity 171 member A2 (FAM171A2) is a membrane-associated protein that functions as a neuronal receptor mediating the endocytic uptake of α-synuclein fibrils, a key pathological event in the propagation of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease. Genetic studies show FAM171A2 regulates progranulin expression and that variants in its coding or regulatory regions modify the risk of several central nervous system disorders. FAM171A2 also has a role in modulating cardiac electrical conduction traits, though its molecular function in the heart is not fully characterized. Bemcentinib has been identified as a small molecule capable of blocking FAM171A2–α-synuclein interactions and lowering fibril uptake, which positions FAM171A2 as a promising therapeutic target for neurodegenerative disease. FAM171A2 is also referred to as F1712_HUMAN in protein databases, and is abundantly expressed in neurons, vascular endothelium, and microglia. Although its precise molecular classification is not fully established, current data support its function as a non-classical, neuronal endocytic receptor in the context of synucleinopathies.

Other names

Protein FAM171A2MGC34829F1712_HUMAN

Blockade of FAM171A2–α-synuclein fibril binding and internalization (for bemcentinib, specifically)