Zinc finger MIZ domain-containing protein 2 (ZMIZ2)

Zinc finger MIZ domain-containing protein 2 (ZMIZ2) is a nuclear protein encoded by the ZMIZ2 gene, belonging to the PIAS-like family and containing a MIZ-type zinc finger motif. It functions primarily as a transcriptional coactivator, interacting with nuclear hormone receptors—especially the androgen receptor—and enhancing their ligand-dependent transcriptional activity. ZMIZ2 modulates several transcription factors (such as p53 and Smads) and is implicated in diverse cellular processes, including regulation of cell proliferation, migration, invasion, cell cycle, and apoptosis. ZMIZ2 is highly expressed in certain cancers, such as triple-negative breast cancer and non-small-cell lung cancer, and correlates with tumor aggressiveness and poor prognosis. It participates in critical signaling pathways such as the Wnt/Hippo axis and influences immune signaling and proliferation-related mechanisms. Knockdown or inhibition of ZMIZ2 can impair tumor cell growth and invasiveness, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target in oncology, although no direct inhibitors are in clinical use at present.

Other names

ZIMP7KIAA1886hZIMP7TRAFIP20NET27DKFZp761I2123HRIHFB2007PIAS-like protein Zimp7zinc finger MIZ-type containing 2

For putative drugs or experimental modulation: inhibition of ZMIZ2 results in reduced proliferation, invasion, and induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in cancer cell models. ZMIZ2 augments androgen receptor activity, so inhibition may diminish AR-dependent transcriptional programs. Disruption of ZMIZ2-SIRT1 interaction modulates Wnt/Hippo signaling, impacting β-catenin and YAP activity in tumors.