Tubulin beta-2A chain (TUBB2A)

Tubulin beta-2A chain is a cytoskeletal protein encoded by the TUBB2A gene and is a major component of microtubules, which are critical for cell structure, division, and intracellular transport[1][3][5]. Microtubules are dynamic structures formed from alpha- and beta-tubulin heterodimers, and TUBB2A represents one of the beta-tubulin isoforms important for the assembly and dynamics of these structures[1][3][4][10]. In the developing brain, TUBB2A plays an essential role in neuronal proliferation and migration[2]. Pathogenic mutations in TUBB2A are associated with a range of neurodevelopmental disorders, notably complex cortical dysplasia, microcephaly, epilepsy, and other migration defects[2][3][9]. Tubulin is a well-established anti-cancer drug target, with agents like vinblastine and dolastatin 10 acting as microtubule inhibitors that interfere with mitosis and induce cell death[5]. However, systemic toxicity, particularly neurotoxicity, remains a therapeutic challenge for microtubule-targeting agents.

Other names

Tubulin beta-2A chainTUBB2ATUBB2dJ40E16.7Tubulin beta class IIaclass IIa beta-tubulinCDCBM5TUBBtubulin, beta 2Atubulin, beta polypeptide 2

Inhibition of microtubule polymerization (by drugs such as vinblastine and dolastatin 10); Disruption of microtubule dynamics, leading to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis