Fidgetin-like 2 (FL2) is an enzyme which in humans is encoded by the gene FIGNL2. FL2 slows the rate at which skin cells migrate to wounds to heal them. If this enzyme is suppressed/absent, skin cells move faster, speeding the healing process. FL2 is closely related to another protein called fidgetin (encoded by FIGN in humans), which severs microtubules.
Delivery Molecules of silencing RNA (siRNA) that bind to a gene's messenger RNA (mRNA) can inhibit the production of FL2, but siRNAs require protection from degradation in order to reach a wound site. In 2015, researchers disclosed the successful use of nanoparticles to ferry siRNA molecules to their intended targets, reducing healing times in mice with skin excisions or burns. The result was normal, well-orchestrated tissue, including hair follicles and supportive collagen network.
References
External links NCBI 401720 Uniprot A6NMB9 Mouse gene informatics: 3646919