AIM2 (Absent In Melanoma 2)
-AIM2 is a cytosolic pattern recognition receptor that belongs to the PYHIN (pyrin and HIN domain) family.
-It is best known for its role in the innate immune system: upon sensing cytosolic double‐stranded DNA, AIM2 forms an inflammasome complex, leading to the activation of caspase-1, secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines (such as IL-1β and IL-18), and induction of a form of cell death termed pyroptosis.
- AIM2 was initially identified for its reduced expression in melanoma cells compared to normal tissue.
Reduced AIM2 expression in melanoma has been associated with impaired inflammasome activation and a loss of a potential tumor-suppressive function.
In melanoma, downregulation of AIM2 may correlate with a more aggressive tumor phenotype and poorer prognosis, suggesting a protective role in this context.
-In colorectal cancer, studies have noted that AIM2 expression can be lost or diminished in tumor cells.
Lower levels of AIM2 have been associated with increased cell proliferation, reduced apoptosis, and enhanced tumor progression.
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