GINS complex subunit 2 (GINS2)

GINS complex subunit 2 (GINS2), also known as PSF2, is a critical component of the eukaryotic GINS complex, which consists of four subunits (Sld5, Psf1, Psf2/GINS2, and Psf3) and is essential for the initiation and elongation of DNA replication. GINS2 serves a scaffolding function in both DNA replication fork formation and progression by directly associating with the MCM2-7 complex and CDC45, forming the core of the CDC45-MCM-GINS (CMG) helicase that unwinds DNA at the replication fork. GINS2 is highly conserved and required for cell cycle progression, cell proliferation, and genomic stability[2][4][5]. Dysregulation or overexpression of GINS2 has been documented in numerous cancer types, where it promotes proliferation, invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, migration, and is correlated with poor patient prognosis[1][3][7][9]. Knockdown of GINS2 induces G2/M cell cycle arrest and apoptosis via pathways such as p53/GADD45A and can attenuate tumorigenic potential in vitro and in vivo[3][7]. Because of its key regulatory checkpoints in the cell cycle and consistent overexpression in cancers, GINS2 is attracting attention as a potential molecular target and prognostic biomarker, though direct pharmacological targeting remains at an experimental or theoretical stage[1][6][7].

Other names

DNA replication complex GINS protein PSF2PSF2CGI-122DC5HSPC037Pfs2GINS2 (Psf2 homolog)