Maternal embryonic leucine zipper kinase (MELK) reduces replication stress in glioblastoma cells

Abstract

Background: Protein kinase MELK is expressed at very high levels in glioblastomas, but it is not understood how this benefits tumor growth. Results: A deficiency of MELK causes replication stress and is associated with cell cycle arrest and senescence. Conclusion: MELK is required for progression through unperturbed S phase. Significance: The inhibition of MELK emerges as an attractive cancer therapy. © 2013 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.