PIM2 (gene)

PIM2 is a proto-oncogene encoding a serine/threonine kinase. It belongs to the PIM (Proviral Insertion site in Murine leukemia viruses) family of kinases, which also includes PIM1 and PIM3. These kinases are known to be important regulators of cell survival, proliferation, and apoptosis.

The PIM2 gene is located on chromosome 17q22 in humans. It is expressed in a variety of tissues, including hematopoietic cells, spleen, thymus, and prostate. PIM2 protein expression is often upregulated in various cancers, including lymphomas, leukemias, and solid tumors.

PIM2 kinase activity promotes cell survival by phosphorylating and inhibiting pro-apoptotic proteins, such as BAD. It also promotes cell cycle progression by phosphorylating and activating cell cycle regulators.

PIM2's role in cancer has made it a target for drug development. Several PIM kinase inhibitors are currently in preclinical and clinical development as potential cancer therapies.

Further research is ongoing to fully elucidate the role of PIM2 in normal cellular processes and its contribution to the development and progression of cancer. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for developing effective and targeted therapies.