MOB kinase activator 2 (MOB2) (MOB2)

MOB kinase activator 2 (MOB2) is a scaffold protein that plays a pivotal role in the Hippo signaling pathway by regulating the activity of Nuclear Dbf2-Related (NDR) kinases, specifically STK38 (NDR1) and STK38L (NDR2) [UniProt: Q70IA6]. Unlike MOB1, which is a core component of the tumor-suppressive Hippo kinase cascade, MOB2 competes for NDR kinase binding and can modulate cell cycle progression, centrosome duplication, and the DNA damage response [PubMed: 25410661]. In clinical oncology, MOB2 is frequently identified as a tumor suppressor; its downregulation is linked to increased proliferation and poor survival in cancers such as colorectal and hepatocellular carcinoma [PubMed: 30217959]. Conversely, some studies suggest MOB2 may promote resistance to certain therapies in specific tumor types like glioblastoma. Although there are currently no FDA-approved drugs or clinical-stage candidates specifically targeting MOB2 mRNA or its protein product, it is a subject of intense research for RNA-based therapies and small molecule modulators aimed at restoring normal Hippo pathway function in cancer patients. The mRNA of MOB2 serves as a potential biomarker for disease progression and a target for future antisense oligonucleotide or siRNA-based interventions.

Other names

MOB2MOB1 homolog BH-MOB2MOB kinase activator-like 2Mps one binder kinase activator-like 2

Modulation of NDR kinase activity and Hippo pathway signaling to control cell proliferation and apoptosis.