KIF15
Description
The KIF15 (kinesin family member 15) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 3.
Kinesin family member 15 is a protein encoded by the KIF15 gene in humans. This protein is a motor protein belonging to the kinesin superfamily. It plays a crucial role in maintaining half-spindle separation by counteracting forces generated by other motor proteins. KIF15 co-localizes with microtubules and actin filaments in both dividing cells and postmitotic neurons.
KIF15, also known as Kinesin-12 and HKLP2, is expressed in all cells during mitosis and in postmitotic neurons undergoing axon growth. It contributes to the maintenance of the bipolar microtubule spindle apparatus in dividing cells and shares redundant functions with KIF11. KIF15 is believed to promote spindle assembly by cross-linking and sliding along microtubules, creating a separation between centrosomes. The microtubule localization of Kif15 is regulated by Kinesin binding protein (KBP). HeLa cells depleted of KIF11, with reduced microtubule dynamics, are able to form bipolar spindles from acentrosomal asters in a KIF15 dependent manner. Therefore, inhibiting KIF15 function may be a vital therapeutic approach in cancer chemotherapy.
KIF15 is also known as BRDCS2, HKLP2, KLP2, KNSL7, NY-BR-62.
