Cell division cycle 7-related protein kinase
Cell Division Cycle 7-Related Protein Kinase[edit | edit source]
The Cell Division Cycle 7-Related Protein Kinase (CDC7) is a serine/threonine kinase that plays a crucial role in the regulation of the cell cycle, particularly during the initiation of DNA replication. CDC7 is a highly conserved protein across eukaryotic species and is essential for the progression of the cell cycle from the G1 phase to the S phase.
Structure and Function[edit | edit source]
CDC7 is a catalytic subunit of a kinase complex that requires an activator protein, known as DBF4, to be fully functional. The CDC7-DBF4 complex, also referred to as the DDK (DBF4-dependent kinase), phosphorylates components of the pre-replicative complex, thereby facilitating the unwinding of DNA and the recruitment of DNA polymerases.
The kinase activity of CDC7 is regulated by its association with DBF4, which is expressed in a cell cycle-dependent manner. This regulation ensures that CDC7 activity is tightly controlled and occurs at the appropriate stage of the cell cycle.
Role in DNA Replication[edit | edit source]
CDC7 is primarily involved in the initiation of DNA replication. It phosphorylates the MCM (minichromosome maintenance) complex, which is a critical step in the activation of the helicase activity necessary for DNA unwinding. This phosphorylation event is a key regulatory point in the transition from the G1 phase to the S phase of the cell cycle.
Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]
Given its essential role in cell cycle progression, CDC7 is a potential target for cancer therapy. Overexpression of CDC7 has been observed in various types of cancer, and its inhibition can lead to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in cancer cells. Several small molecule inhibitors targeting CDC7 are currently under investigation in preclinical and clinical studies.
Research and Development[edit | edit source]
Research on CDC7 continues to explore its broader roles in cell cycle regulation, DNA damage response, and its potential as a therapeutic target. Studies are also investigating the structural biology of CDC7 to design more effective inhibitors.
Also see[edit | edit source]
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