WEE1
Description
The WEE1 (WEE1 G2 checkpoint kinase) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 11.
WEE1 is a protein kinase, similar to the family of Ser/Thr protein kinases, found in the nucleus of cells. Its molecular weight is 96 kDa and it plays a critical role in controlling the timing of cell division. WEE1 specifically acts to inhibit the entry into mitosis by inactivating a protein known as CDK1, thus ensuring cells grow to an appropriate size before division. This control of cell size is critical for proper cell function. WEE1 is found in various organisms, including mammals, highlighting its evolutionary importance.
WEE1 acts as a negative regulator of the G2 to M transition, preventing premature entry into mitosis. It does this by phosphorylating CDK1 on tyrosine 15, specifically within the cyclin B1-CDK1 complex, inactivating it. This phosphorylation event is essential for preventing premature activation of CDK1 and thus ensuring proper cell size and timely entry into mitosis. WEE1's activity peaks in the G2 phase, declining as cells enter mitosis. It is known to be hyperphosphorylated during M phase and degraded during M/G1 phase, contributing to its regulatory role.
WEE1 is also known as WEE1A, WEE1hu.
Associated Diseases
- endometrial cancer
- Parkinson disease
- multiple sclerosis
- lysosomal storage disease
- Alzheimer disease
- cancer
- breast cancer
