WEE2 (WEE1 homolog 2) is a protein kinase primarily involved in regulating meiotic cell cycle progression in oocytes. It belongs to the WEE kinase family, which controls the G2/M phase transition by phosphorylating and inhibiting cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDK1). Unlike its homolog WEE1. which functions in somatic cells, WEE2 is specifically expressed in oocytes and early embryos. It plays a critical role in maintaining meiotic arrest by stabilizing maturation-promoting factor (MPF) through inhibitory phosphorylation until hormonal signals trigger resumption of meiosis.
Research on WEE2 gained momentum due to its association with female infertility. Mutations or dysregulation of WEE2 have been linked to fertilization failure and early embryonic arrest in humans. For instance, biallelic WEE2 variants are reported in women with oocyte maturation defects, highlighting its essential role in human reproduction. WEE2 antibodies, developed as research tools, enable detection and localization of the protein in oocytes, facilitating studies on meiotic regulation, fertilization mechanisms, and pathological conditions like infertility. These antibodies are widely used in techniques such as Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry. Additionally, they aid in exploring WEE2's potential as a biomarker or therapeutic target in reproductive disorders. Current investigations focus on its interaction networks, post-translational modifications, and species-specific functional variations.