Sentrin-specific protease 2 (SENP2) (SENP2)

Sentrin-specific protease 2 (SENP2) is a member of the SENP family of cysteine proteases that plays a critical role in the post-translational modification process known as SUMOylation. It functions by processing newly synthesized SUMO precursors into their mature forms and by deconjugating SUMO from target proteins, thereby regulating their stability, localization, and activity (UniProt Q9HC62). SENP2 is localized primarily at the nuclear pore complex and is involved in several key signaling pathways, including Wnt/beta-catenin and TGF-beta, which are vital for cell growth and differentiation (PubMed 31430350). In the context of disease, SENP2 dysregulation is linked to metabolic syndromes, such as obesity and insulin resistance, by affecting the expression of genes involved in fatty acid oxidation and glucose metabolism (PubMed 25670684). Furthermore, its role in cancer is complex, with evidence suggesting it can influence tumor progression and metastasis in various malignancies like hepatocellular carcinoma and bladder cancer (PubMed 28103278). Therapeutic strategies targeting SENP2 include the development of small-molecule inhibitors and RNA-based modalities, such as siRNA or antisense oligonucleotides, aimed at modulating its expression or enzymatic activity to restore cellular homeostasis (PubMed 23454362).

Other names

Sentrin/SUMO-specific protease SENP2SMT3-specific isopeptidase 2Axin-associated SUMO-specific proteaseAXAM2Smt3-specific isopeptidase 2SENP2 mRNA

Inhibition of the deSUMOylating activity of SENP2 or reduction of SENP2 mRNA levels to modulate the SUMOylation status of key regulatory proteins.