CEP68

CEP68 or Centrosomal Protein 68 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the CEP68 gene. This protein is a component of the centrosome, an organelle crucial for cell cycle regulation, cell division, and the organization of microtubules in cells. CEP68 plays a significant role in centrosome cohesion and function, impacting cellular processes such as mitosis and cellular signaling.

Function

CEP68 is involved in maintaining the integrity and the proper function of the centrosome. It participates in the cohesion of centrosomal proteins, ensuring the correct spindle orientation and chromosome segregation during cell division. This protein interacts with other centrosomal proteins, such as CEP215 (CDK5RAP2) and CEP250 (C-Nap1), to regulate centrosome linkage and separation in preparation for mitotic spindle formation. Through these interactions, CEP68 is implicated in the control of cell cycle progression and the maintenance of genomic stability.

Gene

The CEP68 gene is located on human chromosome 2, and its expression is regulated throughout the cell cycle. Mutations or alterations in the expression of CEP68 can lead to centrosome abnormalities, which are associated with various human diseases, including cancer and microcephaly.

Clinical Significance

Abnormalities in CEP68 function or expression have been linked to a range of human diseases. Overexpression or mutations in the CEP68 gene can result in centrosome amplification, a hallmark of cancer cells, leading to aneuploidy and tumorigenesis. Conversely, reduced expression or loss of function mutations in CEP68 can contribute to developmental disorders, such as microcephaly, by disrupting normal cell division and growth.

Research

Research on CEP68 continues to uncover its roles in cell biology and its implications in disease. Studies aim to elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which CEP68 regulates centrosome cohesion and function, as well as its interactions with other proteins within the cell. Understanding the precise functions of CEP68 may lead to the development of targeted therapies for diseases associated with centrosome dysfunction.