Roundabout homolog 2 (ROBO2)

Roundabout homolog 2 (ROBO2) is a transmembrane receptor belonging to the immunoglobulin superfamily, primarily known for its role in the Slit-Robo signaling pathway. It acts as a receptor for Slit ligands, specifically Slit1 and Slit2, to mediate repulsive cues during axon guidance and cell migration in the developing nervous system [1, 2]. Beyond its neurological functions, ROBO2 is critical for proper kidney development, where it regulates the position of the ureteric bud and prevents the development of vesicoureteral reflux [3]. In oncology, ROBO2 is frequently dysregulated and can act as either a tumor suppressor or an oncogene depending on the specific cancer type, influencing processes such as metastasis and angiogenesis [4]. While there are currently no FDA-approved drugs specifically targeting ROBO2, it is an active area of research for treating congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT) and various malignancies [5]. Therapeutic strategies under investigation include monoclonal antibodies and small molecules designed to modulate its interaction with Slit ligands to restore normal signaling [6]. Sources: [1] UniProt (Q9HCK4); [2] NCBI Gene (6092); [3] Lu et al. (2007) Am J Hum Genet; [4] Gara et al. (2015) Oncotarget; [5] Ballard & Hinck (2012) Nat Rev Cancer; [6] PubMed (PMID: 25605874).

Other names

Roundabout 2SAX3Roundabout guidance receptor 2

Modulation of Slit-Robo signaling pathway through inhibition of ligand-receptor binding or downstream signaling cascades