ANAPC2

ANAPC2 Full Name

anaphase promoting complex subunit 2

ANAPC2 Introduction

ANAPC2 (anaphase promoting complex subunit 2) is a core component of the anaphase-promoting complex/cyclosome (APC/C), an essential E3 ubiquitin ligase that regulates the progression of the cell cycle. APC/C is highly conserved across eukaryotes, including yeast, Drosophila, C. elegans, and humans, and it plays a critical role in mediating the transition from metaphase to anaphase by targeting key cell cycle regulators for ubiquitin-mediated degradation. ANAPC2, together with other APC/C subunits, contributes to maintaining genomic stability by ensuring accurate chromosome segregation and orderly mitotic exit, making it a pivotal element in cell proliferation control and mitotic fidelity.

Functionally, ANAPC2 participates in the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway, targeting proteins such as cyclins, securin, and signaling molecules including KRAS and BRAF for degradation. Through this activity, ANAPC2 influences multiple signaling pathways involved in cell growth, differentiation, and apoptosis. For example, in colorectal cancer, ANAPC2 has been shown to facilitate the degradation of KRAS via the ubiquitin-proteasome system, highlighting its role as a regulatory hub connecting E3 ligase activity with oncogenic signaling. By modulating the stability of these substrates, ANAPC2 helps prevent uncontrolled proliferation and can counteract mechanisms of drug resistance that arise from dysregulated protein turnover.

Clinically, ANAPC2 has emerged as a potential therapeutic target in cancer. Mutations or dysregulation of APC/C subunits, including ANAPC2, have been observed in various malignancies, correlating with altered cell cycle dynamics and poor prognosis. Preclinical studies demonstrate that enhancing ANAPC2-mediated ubiquitination of KRAS can sensitize colorectal cancer cells to targeted therapies, including combinations of natural and synthetic compounds that suppress the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. These findings suggest that modulating ANAPC2 activity could provide novel strategies for overcoming resistance in KRAS-driven cancers and improving patient outcomes.

Alternate Names for ANAPC2

ANAPC2; anaphase promoting complex subunit 2; APC2; RP11-350O14.5; Anaphase-promoting complex subunit 2; Cyclosome subunit 2; KIAA1406; OTHUMP00000022692

• 1.Melloy PG. The anaphase-promoting complex: A key mitotic regulator associated with somatic mutations occurring in cancer. Genes Chromosomes Cancer. 2020, 59(3):189-202.
  2.Su R, et al.; Targeting the ubiquitin-proteasome system and drug therapy in colorectal cancer. J Mol Cell Biol. 2026, 17(6):mjaf027.