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KIF15

Protein-coding gene in the species Homo sapiens From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

KIF15
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Kinesin family member 15 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the KIF15 gene.[5]

Quick facts Available structures, PDB ...

This gene encodes a motor protein that is part of the kinesin superfamily. KIF15 maintains half spindle separation by opposing forces generated by other motor proteins. KIF15 co-localizes with microtubules and actin filaments in both dividing cells and in postmitotic neurons.[5]

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Function

KIF15 (also known as Kinesin-12 and HKLP2) is a motor protein expressed in all cells during mitosis and in postmitotic neurons undergoing axon growth.[6] KIF15 maintains bipolar microtubule spindle apparatus in dividing cells and shares redundant functions with KIF11.[7] KIF15 is thought to promote spindle assembly by cross-linking and sliding along microtubules creating a separation between centrosomes. The microtubule localization of Kif15 is being regulated by Kinesin binding protein (KBP).[8] HeLa cells depleted of KIF11, with reduced microtubule dynamics, are able to form bipolar spindles from acentrosomal asters in a KIF15 dependent manner.[9][10] Hence, inhibition of KIF15 function will be a vital therapeutic approach in cancer chemotherapy.[11] Since KIF11 and KIF15 are functionally redundant, drugs targeting both the proteins will be more potent.[8]

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Function in neurons

KIF15 restricts the movement of short microtubules into growing axons by generating forces on microtubules which counteract those generated by cytoplasmic dynein.[12][13] KIF15, together with KIF23 become enriched in dendrites as neurons mature to promote the transport of minus-end distal microtubules into nascent dendrites.[12]

Interactions

KIF15 has been shown to interact with TPX2. Both these dimers cooperate to slide along microtubules and maintain bipolar spindles.[14][15]

References

Further reading

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