CENPH

Overview

CENPH (Centromere Protein H) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the CENPH gene. It is a component of the centromere, a region of the chromosome that is essential for proper chromosome segregation during cell division. CENPH is part of the CENP-A nucleosome-associated complex, which is crucial for the assembly of the kinetochore, a structure that attaches chromosomes to the spindle fibers during mitosis and meiosis.

Function

CENPH plays a critical role in the maintenance of centromere identity and function. It is involved in the recruitment of other centromere proteins, such as CENP-C and CENP-I, to the centromere. This recruitment is essential for the formation of a functional kinetochore, which is necessary for the accurate segregation of chromosomes to daughter cells.

The protein is also implicated in the regulation of chromatin structure at the centromere, ensuring that the centromeric chromatin is distinct from the surrounding chromatin. This distinction is important for the epigenetic inheritance of centromere identity.

Clinical Significance

Mutations or dysregulation of CENPH can lead to chromosomal instability, which is a hallmark of many cancers. Studies have shown that overexpression of CENPH is associated with poor prognosis in certain types of cancer, such as hepatocellular carcinoma and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.

Research

Research on CENPH is ongoing to better understand its role in centromere function and its potential as a target for cancer therapy. Studies are also exploring the interactions between CENPH and other centromere proteins to elucidate the complex network of protein interactions that govern centromere and kinetochore assembly.

Also see

• Centromere
• Kinetochore
• CENP-A
• Chromosome segregation
• Mitosis
• Meiosis