CEP57

CEP57 or Centrosomal protein of 57 kDa is a protein that in humans is encoded by the CEP57 gene. This protein plays a crucial role in cell cycle regulation, centrosome duplication, and microtubule nucleation. CEP57 is a component of the pericentriolar material (PCM) and is involved in the assembly of microtubule organizing centers (MTOCs), which are critical for microtubule formation and stabilization in cell division.

Function

CEP57 is implicated in the proper functioning of the centrosome, a key cellular organelle that serves as a major microtubule organizing center. The centrosome plays a vital role in spatial arrangement of the cell's skeleton and in the segregation of chromosomes during mitosis and meiosis. By participating in the formation and maintenance of the centrosome, CEP57 contributes to accurate cell division and helps maintain genomic stability.

In addition to its role in centrosome duplication, CEP57 is involved in the stabilization of microtubules. It interacts with other centrosomal proteins to anchor microtubules to the centrosome, facilitating the formation of the spindle apparatus necessary for chromosome segregation.

Clinical Significance

Alterations in the expression or function of CEP57 have been associated with various types of cancer. Abnormalities in centrosome number and structure, often due to dysregulation of centrosomal proteins like CEP57, can lead to aneuploidy and tumorigenesis. Research is ongoing to understand the potential of CEP57 as a biomarker for cancer diagnosis or as a target for therapeutic intervention.

Gene

The CEP57 gene is located on human chromosome 11, and consists of multiple exons that encode the CEP57 protein. The gene undergoes alternative splicing, resulting in different isoforms of the protein, which may have distinct functions within the cell.

See Also

• Centrosome
• Cell cycle
• Microtubule organizing center
• Microtubule
• Chromosome segregation