Neuron navigator 2 (NAV2)

Neuron navigator 2 is a large, multidomain cellular protein that supports neuronal development by orchestrating cytoskeletal rearrangements critical for neurite outgrowth, axon guidance, and neuron migration. It contains unique functional domains—including a calponin-homology (CH) domain, coiled-coil regions, a cytoskeletal interacting domain, and a conserved AAA+ ATPase domain—that are highly conserved among eukaryotic “Navigator” family proteins. NAV2 is strongly expressed in the developing central nervous system and retinoic acid signaling upregulates its expression in neuronal cells. Genetic mutations in NAV2 cause human neurodevelopmental disorders marked by cerebellar hypoplasia, migration deficits, and other brain malformations. Associations with Alzheimer’s disease and colorectal cancer suggest a broader role in disease biology, with current research focusing on its value as a biomarker and potential therapeutic target. NAV2 does not fit classic categories like “receptor” or “enzyme” but acts as a cytoskeletal modulator vital for normal nervous system development and function.

Other names

HELAD1KIAA1419POMFIL2RAINB1STEERIN2unc53H2FLJ10633FLJ11030FLJ23707Helicase APC down-regulated 1Pore membrane and/or filament-interacting-like protein 2Retinoic acid inducible gene in neuroblastoma 1Steerin-2Unc-53 homolog 2

Not established; drugs may aim to modulate NAV2 expression or function in contexts of neurodevelopment or cancer