CENPI

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia


Overview[edit | edit source]

CENPI (Centromere Protein I) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the CENPI gene. This protein is a component of the CENP (centromere protein) complex, which is essential for the proper segregation of chromosomes during mitosis and meiosis. CENPI plays a critical role in the assembly of the kinetochore, a structure on the chromosome that attaches to the spindle fibers during cell division.

Function[edit | edit source]

CENPI is involved in the regulation of the cell cycle and is crucial for the accurate distribution of duplicated chromosomes to daughter cells. It is part of the CENP-H/I/K complex, which is necessary for the recruitment of other kinetochore proteins and the stabilization of microtubule attachments. The proper functioning of CENPI ensures that chromosomes are aligned and segregated correctly, preventing aneuploidy, a condition that can lead to cancer and other diseases.

Structure[edit | edit source]

The CENPI protein is composed of several domains that facilitate its interaction with other centromere proteins and the chromatin. It contains a conserved domain that is critical for its localization to the centromere and its function in kinetochore assembly. The structure of CENPI allows it to act as a scaffold for the binding of additional proteins required for kinetochore function.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Mutations or dysregulation of the CENPI gene can lead to chromosomal instability, which is a hallmark of many cancers. Studies have shown that overexpression of CENPI is associated with poor prognosis in certain types of cancer, such as breast cancer and prostate cancer. As a result, CENPI is being investigated as a potential target for cancer therapy.

Research[edit | edit source]

Ongoing research is focused on understanding the precise molecular mechanisms by which CENPI and its associated complexes contribute to kinetochore function and chromosome segregation. Researchers are also exploring the potential of targeting CENPI in cancer treatment, aiming to develop drugs that can specifically inhibit its function in cancer cells.

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD