Talin-2 (TLN2)

Talin-2 is a large cytoskeletal adaptor protein encoded by the TLN2 gene in humans and other vertebrates, closely related to talin-1 but with distinguishing isoforms, tissue-specific expression, and unique functional roles[3][4][5][6]. Talin-2 links integrin receptors to the actin cytoskeleton, regulates integrin activation, and controls the assembly and stability of focal adhesions—sites critical for cell adhesion, migration, signal transduction, and mechanosensing[1][2][4][5][6]. Its higher affinity for β-integrin tails compared to talin-1 enables it to mediate traction force generation and promote invadopodium formation, supporting cell invasion and metastasis in cancer[1][2]. Talin-2 is dispensable for some developmental processes but is often crucial for specialized cellular functions; multiple isoforms are expressed via alternative splicing, with some unique roles in testis and kidney[3][4]. Pathogenic mutations in TLN2 (e.g., S339L) are associated with inherited diseases such as Fifth Finger Camptodactyly[2]. Drugs like trastuzumab can modulate talin-2-related pathways, limiting cancer cell migration and invasion[2]. Therapies targeting TLN2 must consider isoform diversity and potential compensatory mechanisms through talin-1.

Other names

Talin-2TLN2KIAA0320ILWEQ

Down-regulation or inhibition of TLN2-mediated integrin-cytoskeleton linkage reduces cell migration, invasion, and adhesion[2]