Recombinant Human GPC2 protein

GPC2 (Glypican-2) is a member of the glypican family of heparan sulfate (HS) proteoglycans, which are cell membrane-associated proteins linked via glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchors. These proteins play critical roles in regulating developmental signaling pathways, including Wnt, Hedgehog, and fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling, by modulating ligand-receptor interactions. GPC2 is particularly notable for its involvement in neural development and its aberrant expression in certain cancers.

In normal physiology, GPC2 is highly expressed during embryonic development, especially in the nervous system, where it influences neuronal migration, axon guidance, and synaptic connectivity. Postnatally, its expression declines but may persist in specific tissues. Pathologically, GPC2 has gained attention as a potential oncogene. Studies show its overexpression in neuroblastoma, a pediatric cancer arising from neural crest cells, where it promotes tumorigenesis by enhancing MYCN oncogene activity and sustaining proliferative signaling pathways. Its tumor-specific expression and low detection in healthy tissues make GPC2 a promising therapeutic target.

Recombinant GPC2 protein is engineered to study its biochemical properties, receptor interactions, and therapeutic applications. Produced in mammalian expression systems (e.g., HEK293 or CHO cells), it retains post-translational modifications like HS chain attachment, ensuring functional relevance. Researchers use recombinant GPC2 to develop targeted therapies, including antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and CAR-T cells, which selectively bind GPC2 on cancer cells. Additionally, it serves as a tool for structural studies to identify binding interfaces for drug design or to screen small-molecule inhibitors.

Overall, GPC2’s dual role in neurodevelopment and cancer underscores its biological significance, while recombinant GPC2 provides a valuable resource for both mechanistic studies and translational oncology research.