G3BP2: Structure and function

Ras–GAP SH3 domain binding proteins (G3BPs) are a family of RNA-binding proteins that include G3BP1 and G3BP2 in mammals. The protein structure of G3BP2 allows it to bind with RNA or protein and regulate the nucleoplasmic shuttle, therefore participating in a variety of biological functions such as cell growth, differentiation and migration, and RNA and protein metabolism. G3BP2 is abnormally expressed in many tumors and diseases, such as breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, cardiac hypertrophy, and atherosclerosis. Many researchers have found that G3BP2 may be a potential therapeutic target. In this review, we examine the structure and expression regulation of G3BP2, and further summarize the function of G3BP2 from three aspects: RNA stabilization, protein subcellular localization, and stress granules assembling to provide a broader understanding of the role of G3BP2.