Target intelligence / Profile preview

Unc-51-like kinase 2 (ULK2)

Target: ULK2
Molecular classification: Enzyme, Serine/threonine-protein kinase

Overview

Unc-51-like kinase 2 (ULK2) is a serine/threonine-protein kinase that plays a critical role in autophagy initiation and neuronal development. It functions as part of a complex that regulates autophagosome biogenesis and is involved in axonal elongation and nerve growth factor signaling. ULK2 is regulated by both mTORC1 and AMPK, and its activity is essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis under stress conditions. Current pharmacological inhibitors lack selectivity and can have off-target effects that complicate interpretation of experimental data.

Mechanism of action

Kinase inhibition

Biological functions

Autophagy initiationNeuronal developmentRegulation of endocytosis

Disease associations

Neurodegenerative diseaseSmith–Magenis syndrome (potential)

Safety considerations

Off-target effects (e.g., Aurora A inhibition)Functional redundancy with ULK1 complicates target validation

Interacting drugs

ATP competitive inhibitors (ULK1/ULK2)

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