Interferon-Induced GTP-Binding Protein Mx2 (MX2) Protein

Background

MX dynamin-like GTPase 2 (MX2) is closely related to MX1 and shares structural and functional similarities, although it has distinct antiviral properties. Unlike MX1, MX2 primarily targets retroviruses, including human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1), by inhibiting the nuclear import of viral DNA. MX2 is also induced by type I interferons and requires GTPase activity for its antiviral function. Recent studies have shown that MX2 interacts with nuclear pore complex components to block the integration of viral DNA into the host genome. The protein plays a crucial role in the host defense mechanism, particularly in restricting lentiviral infections. MX2 is being explored as a therapeutic target for HIV and other retroviral diseases due to its selective antiviral activity and ability to modulate host-pathogen interactions.