Nuclear factor of activated T-cells, cytoplasmic 2 (NFATC2)

Nuclear factor of activated T-cells, cytoplasmic 2 (NFATC2) is a member of the NFAT transcription factor family, crucial for T-cell development and immune function. It is a DNA-binding protein that resides in the cytoplasm and translocates to the nucleus upon T-cell receptor activation, where it regulates expression of key cytokines fundamental to immune response. NFATC2 interacts with multiple cofactors and is involved in various signaling pathways, including those influencing cell migration and chondrogenesis. Genetic alterations of NFATC2, such as oncogenic fusion with EWSR1, have been implicated in certain cancers. Pharmacologically, NFATC2 is targeted indirectly by calcineurin inhibitors (cyclosporine, tacrolimus) used in transplantation and autoimmune settings, which block its activation and nuclear translocation.

Other names

NFAT1NFATpNF-ATc2NFAT pre-existing subunitNFAT transcription complex, nuclear factor of activated T-cells, cytoplasmic, calcineurin-dependent 2NF-ATPnuclear factor of activated T-cells, preexisting component

Inhibition of calcineurin prevents NFATC2 dephosphorylation and nuclear translocation, blocking cytokine gene transcription (mechanism for cyclosporine and tacrolimus)