Rab-like protein 2A (RABL2A)

Rab-like protein 2A (RABL2A) is a small GTPase of the Ras GTPase superfamily, closely related to Rab proteins but distinct due to its lacking certain subfamily-specific features (e.g., canonical C-terminal prenylation). RABL2A plays an essential role in the development and function of cilia and flagella, most notably in sperm intra-flagellar transport and tail assembly, making it indispensable for male fertility. In its GTP-bound (active) form, RABL2A binds to a specific set of effector proteins required for proper cilia/flagella function and localizes these proteins in tissues where motile cilia are present (such as testis, brain, lung, and others). Expression profiling indicates that RABL2A is most highly expressed in the testis but is also detected in other tissues with motile cilia. Mutations in RABL2A lead to male infertility due to defects in sperm tail structure and motility. No evidence supports its use as a target for clinical therapies or as a biomarker.

Other names

RABL2ARab-like protein 2ARab, member of RAS oncogene family like 2A

None applicable; RABL2A is not a drug target, so no specific mechanism of action for therapeutic agents exists. Its biochemical mechanism involves GTP-regulated binding and cargo delivery within the cell.