Arpc2, or Actin-related protein 2/3 complex subunit 2, is a crucial actin-binding component involved in the regulation of actin polymerization. It mediates the formation of branched actin networks, which is fundamental for maintaining the dynamics of the F-actin cytoskeleton, a key factor in many biological processes like cell migration, invasion, and intercellular force maintenance. It is associated with pathways such as the TGF-β pathway and is important for epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) [1,2].

In cancer research, studies on human cell lines and animal models have been pivotal. In breast cancer, siRNA-ARPC2 transfection showed that ARPC2 promotes cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, and activates the TGF-β pathway to contribute to EMT [1]. In hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), silencing ARPC2 in HCC cells significantly inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, while overexpression promoted these processes [2]. In gastric cancer, ARPC2 promoted cell proliferation and invasion in the MKN-28 cell line, and was highly expressed in cancer tissues compared to normal ones, being associated with poor prognosis [4]. Benproperine, an ARPC2 inhibitor, suppressed cancer cell migration and tumor metastasis in animal models, suggesting ARPC2 as a potential anti-metastatic target [3].

In conclusion, Arpc2 plays a significant role in processes related to cell migration, invasion, and proliferation, especially in cancer development. Research on Arpc2 using gene-editing techniques in cell lines and animal models has provided insights into its role in breast, liver, and gastric cancers, among others. These findings suggest that Arpc2 could be a potential therapeutic target for anti-cancer treatment.