Stabilin-2 (STAB2) (STAB2)

Stabilin-2, also known as the Hyaluronan receptor for endocytosis (HARE), is a large type I transmembrane scavenger receptor primarily expressed on the sinusoidal endothelial cells of the liver, lymph nodes, and spleen [1]. It plays a critical role in the systemic clearance of various glycosaminoglycans, most notably hyaluronan, heparin, and chondroitin sulfates, from the circulation [2, 3]. Beyond its scavenging function, Stabilin-2 is involved in cell-cell interactions, lymphocyte homing, and the clearance of apoptotic cells [1]. In disease contexts, it has been implicated in liver fibrosis, where its expression patterns change, and in cancer metastasis, where it may facilitate the adhesion of tumor cells to the endothelium [4]. Therapeutically, Stabilin-2 is being explored as a target for liver-specific drug delivery using hyaluronan-conjugated carriers and as a potential modulator of coagulation, given its role in clearing Factor VIII [4]. Understanding its ligand-binding specificity and endocytic pathways is essential for developing targeted interventions that minimize systemic toxicity.

Other names

Hyaluronan receptor for endocytosisHAREFEEL-2Fasciclin, EGF-like, laminin-type EGF-like and link domain-containing scavenger receptor 1FELL

Stabilin-2 mediates the systemic clearance of glycosaminoglycans and other ligands through clathrin-dependent endocytosis and subsequent lysosomal degradation [1, 2].