Regulation of mitosis via mitotic kinases: New opportunities for cancer management

Abstract

Mitosis, a critical and highly orchestrated event in the cell cycle, decides howcel ls divide and transmit genetic information from one cell generation to the next. Errors in the choreography of these events may lead to uncontrolled proliferation, aneuploidy, and genetic instability culminating in cancer development. Considering the central role of phosphorylation in mitotic checkpoints, spindle function, and chromosome segregation, it is not surprising that several mitotic kinases have been implicated in tumorigenesis. These kinases play pivotal roles throughout cellular division. From DNA damage and spindle assembly checkpoints before entering mitosis, to kinetochore and centrosome maturation and separation, to regulating the timing of entrance and exit of mitosis, mitotic kinases are essential for cellular integrity. Therefore, targeting the mitotic kinases that control the fidelity of chromosome transmission seems to be a promising avenue in the management of cancer. This review provides an insight into the mechanism of mitotic signaling, especially the role of critical mitotic kinases. We have also discussed the possibilities of the use of mitotic kinases in crafting novel strategies in cancer management. Copyright © 2007 American Association for Cancer Research.