Poly(rC)-binding protein 2 (PCBP2)

Poly(rC)-binding protein 2 (PCBP2) is a multifunctional RNA-binding protein characterized by the presence of three K-homologous (KH) domains, which mediate its high-affinity, sequence-specific interaction with poly(C) RNA and DNA. PCBP2 is involved in multiple regulatory processes including mRNA stability, translational control (notably as a coactivator for viral RNAs), and iron metabolism. It regulates alpha-globin mRNA stability, viral replication, and interacts with other RNA-binding proteins. Overexpression of PCBP2 is documented in various cancers, where it promotes cell proliferation, migration, invasion, tumorigenesis, and drug resistance, making it an emerging oncogene and prognostic biomarker. PCBP2 is encoded by the PCBP2 gene on human chromosome 12 and is a member of the hnRNP family. Its functions are evolutionarily conserved and central to cellular homeostasis, but dysregulation can contribute to malignancy and viral pathogenesis.

Other names

PCBP2hnRNP-E2alpha-CP2heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein E2

Drugs modulating PCBP2 would act by altering RNA regulation, protein synthesis, mRNA stability, and possibly iron metabolism, thus affecting cell proliferation and survival. Antisense oligonucleotides or RNAi have been investigated in preclinical studies for knockdown in cancer models.