Prokineticin 2 (PROK2)

Prokineticin 2 is a small, secreted peptide that belongs to the prokineticin family and functions primarily as a ligand for two G protein-coupled receptors, PKR1 and PKR2. It is highly expressed in the suprachiasmatic nucleus, where it plays a critical role in controlling circadian rhythms, but is also found in the gastrointestinal tract, endocrine tissues, and various brain regions. Prokineticin 2 regulates gastrointestinal motility, mediates migration and development of olfactory and GnRH neurons, contributes to angiogenesis, pain perception, immune modulation, and is involved in both the neuroprotective and neurotoxic response to injuries such as oxidative stress and excitotoxicity. Dysregulation or mutations in the PROK2 gene are associated with disorders such as Kallmann syndrome and have roles in neurodegenerative and inflammatory diseases. While there are no approved drugs directly targeting Prokineticin 2, antagonists and gene therapies targeting its receptors are actively explored as therapeutic strategies[1][2][3][4][5].

Other names

Prokineticin-2PROK2BV8PK2MIT1KAL4Protein Bv8 homologHH4

Antagonists: Block PROK2 binding to its receptors (PKR1/PKR2), inhibiting downstream GPCR signaling pathways. Agonists: Activate PROK2-dependent GPCR signaling, promoting neuroprotective or metabolic effects.