ABL2/ARG
ABL2, also called ARG (Abelson-related gene), is the second member of the Abl family of non-receptor tyrosine kinases. It shares with ABL1 the canonical SH3-SH2-kinase cassette but carries a longer C-terminal extension with two F-actin-binding domains and a microtubule-binding motif, making it a particularly potent regulator of actin dynamics, lamellipodia and cell migration. ABL2 is activated downstream of growth factor receptors and integrins and participates in axon guidance, synapse morphogenesis and vascular integrity. ABL2 rearrangements, such as ETV6-ABL2 fusions, occur in acute leukemias and sarcomas, and ABL2 amplification promotes invasion in lung and breast cancers. ABL2 signaling is blocked by clinically approved ABL kinase inhibitors including imatinib.
