ZFP36 ring finger protein like 2 (ZFP36L2)

ZFP36 ring finger protein like 2 (ZFP36L2) is an RNA-binding protein belonging to the CCCH-type zinc finger (TIS11) family, characterized by a tandem zinc finger motif that recognizes AU-rich elements in the 3'-untranslated regions (3'-UTRs) of target mRNAs[2][7]. It promotes deadenylation and decay of these mRNAs, thereby modulating gene expression post-transcriptionally. This activity positions ZFP36L2 as a key regulator of cell cycle progression, apoptosis, and immune cell differentiation. Its functions are implicated in tumorigenesis, immune response, and hematopoiesis. Loss of function or dysregulation is linked to various cancers, autoimmune disorders, and fertility issues. ZFP36L2 is also under investigation as a prognostic and immunotherapy biomarker in lower-grade glioma, with its expression associated with immune infiltration and response to immune checkpoint blockade. Despite its clear biological significance, it is not currently targeted directly by approved therapeutics, but modulation of its pathway is of considerable research interest[2][5][7][8].

Other names

TIS11DERF2RNF162CBRF2Butyrate response factor 2Zinc finger protein 36, C3H type-like 2mRNA decay activator protein ZFP36L2TPA-induced sequence 11dzfp36l2-a, zfp36l2-b (in model organisms)XC3H-3, c3h-3 (in model organisms)

No drugs with direct, characterized mechanisms of action on ZFP36L2 are currently available. Experimental approaches that modulate its activity typically involve gene expression manipulation (e.g., enforced expression, knockdown) or affect pathways controlling its expression (e.g., stress, cytokines, growth factors)[2][8].