2. Academic Validation
  3. Kinesin Spindle Protein (KIF11) in Mitosis and Cancer

Kinesin Spindle Protein (KIF11) in Mitosis and Cancer

  • Int J Mol Sci. 2025 Sep 15;26(18):8975. doi: 10.3390/ijms26188975.
João P N Silva 1,  Patrícia M A Silva 1 2 3,  Hassan Bousbaa 1
Affiliations

Affiliations

  • 1 UNIPRO-Oral Pathology and Rehabilitation Research Unit, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), Cooperativa de Ensino Superior Politécnico e Universitário (CESPU), 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal.
  • 2 Associate Laboratory i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, University Institute of Health Sciences-CESPU, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal.
  • 3 UCIBIO-Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Translational Toxicology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Health Sciences (1H-TOXRUN, IUCS-CESPU), 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal.
PMID: 41009541 DOI: 10.3390/ijms26188975
Abstract

Kinesin spindle protein (KSP), also known as KIF11, is a member of the Kinesin superfamily of motor proteins that plays a pivotal role in Mitosis by regulating spindle assembly, chromosome alignment, and segregation. Its motor activity, which is essential for the proper organization of microtubules during Mitosis, is crucial for maintaining genomic stability. KSP overexpression has been observed in several Cancer types, where it promotes uncontrolled cell proliferation, making it a promising target for Cancer therapy. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the molecular mechanisms underlying KSP function, including its structural features, ATPase activity, and interactions with Other mitotic proteins. Additionally, we review the regulation of KSP through post-translational modifications, such as phosphorylation, as well as the therapeutic strategies currently being explored to inhibit its activity in Cancer treatment.

Keywords

KIF11; KSP; cancer; cancer therapy; mitosis; molecular motor.

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