Aurora kinase B

Aurora kinase B is a protein that in humans is encoded by the AURKB gene. It is a member of the Aurora kinase family, which includes three members: Aurora A, Aurora B, and Aurora C. These kinases are crucial for the regulation of cellular division and chromosome segregation.

PDB 2dwb EBI

Function

Aurora kinase B is a chromosomal passenger protein that is required for correct chromosome alignment and segregation and for cytokinesis. It is involved in the regulation of different stages of mitosis and meiosis. Aurora B kinase activity peaks during the G2 phase and M phase of the cell cycle.

Structure

The Aurora B kinase is a serine/threonine-protein kinase that is composed of 344 amino acids. It has a molecular weight of approximately 39 kDa. The protein contains a protein kinase domain that is responsible for its catalytic activity.

Clinical significance

Alterations in the expression or activity of Aurora kinase B have been associated with several types of cancer, including leukemia, breast cancer, and colorectal cancer. Inhibitors of Aurora B, such as barasertib, are currently being investigated as potential cancer therapeutics.

See also

• Aurora kinase A
• Aurora kinase C
• Cell cycle
• Mitosis
• Meiosis