Abstract: CUG2 (cancer-up-regulated gene 2) protein, also known as centromere protein W(CENP-W), is a novel nuclear protein. Resent studies show that it is indispensable to cell division and apoptosis, and is commonly up-regulated in many cancer tissues, such as rectal colon and stomach cancers. CUG2 is also believed to act as an oncogene. Localized specifically on the centromere or nucleolus, CUG2 could combine with CENP-T and takes a part in the establishment of centromere chromatin structure. In this paper we will review briefly the advanced studies on CUG2, including its discovery, structural features, biological function and the relationship between CUG2 and cancer. protein