Progesterone receptor membrane component 2 (PGRMC2)

Progesterone receptor membrane component 2 (PGRMC2) is an evolutionarily conserved membrane-associated protein that acts as a non-classical receptor for progesterone and a heme chaperone, playing essential roles in the regulation of uterine architecture and reproductive lifespan. PGRMC2 localizes predominantly to uterine epithelia and ovarian cells, where it modulates cell cycle progression, apoptosis, and steroid responses independently of the classical nuclear progesterone receptor. Its expression is altered in several gynecological diseases, including endometriosis, infertility, and select cancers, suggesting roles as a therapeutic target or biomarker. Experimental ligands such as CPAG-1 have shown preclinical protective roles in ischemic injury, although direct drug interactions in clinical use remain largely unexplored. The molecular mechanisms further involve heme trafficking to the nucleus for regulation of transcriptional repressors impacting metabolism and cell function.

Other names

PGRMC2Membrane-associated progesterone receptor family memberDg6

Ligand (such as CPAG-1) promotes neuroprotection via PGRMC2 activation; PGRMC2 influences progesterone-dependent suppression of cell mitosis/apoptosis; Delivers signaling heme for transcriptional regulation