MARK2 or microtubule affinity-regulating kinase 2 is a member of the Par-1 family of serine/threonine protein kinases. MARK2 is an important regulator of cell polarity in epithelial and neuronal cells and controls the stability of microtubules through phosphorylation and inactivation of several microtubule-associating proteins. MARK2 is a key target of H. pylori CagA in the disorganization of gastric epithelial architecture underlying mucosal damage, inflammation, and carcinogenesis. MARK2 phosphorylates kinesin-like motor protein GAKIN/KIF13B to regulate axon formation. MARK2 function in the establishment of T cell polarity following engagement to an APC.
