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The role of Aurora-A in cancer stem cells
Minle Li1, Keyu Gao2, Laili Chu1
1Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Cancer Institute, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221002, China.
Abstract:
Aurora kinase A (Aurora-A), a member of the Aurora family of serine/threonine kinases, plays a critical role in multiple steps of mitotic progression, including microtubule stability during the G1 phase of the cell cycle, chromosome alignment and segregation, and cytokinesis and is aberrantly expressed in various types of human cancers. In addition to its classic functions, recent studies have indicated that Aurora-A is critical for controlling self-renewal of embryonic stem cells through negative regulation of p53. Additionally, aberrant expression of Aurora-A contributes to oncogenic transformation and induces stem cell-like properties in estrogen receptor α-positive breast cancer cells. Silencing of Aurora-A has been implicated in elimination of leukemia stem cells in vivo. Therefore, Aurora-A is an attractive target for cancer therapeutics and a growing number of small molecule inhibitors of Aurora-A have been developed. In the present review, we will address the role of Aurora-A in cancer stem cells, as well as the outcomes of clinical trials assessing Aurora-A-specific small molecular inhibitors.
Insights
Aurora kinase A (Aurora-A) is crucial for cell division and stem cell self-renewal. Inhibiting Aurora-A shows promise for eliminating cancer stem cells and treating various cancers.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Biology
- Oncology
Background:
- Aurora kinase A (Aurora-A) is a serine/threonine kinase vital for mitotic progression.
- Aberrant Aurora-A expression is linked to human cancers and stem cell properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of Aurora-A in cancer stem cells.
- To summarize clinical trial outcomes for Aurora-A inhibitors.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of Aurora-A's function in cell cycle and stemness.
- Analysis of clinical trial data for Aurora-A inhibitors.
Main Results:
- Aurora-A regulates embryonic stem cell self-renewal and oncogenic transformation.
- Aurora-A inhibition can eliminate leukemia stem cells.
- Clinical trials assess small molecule inhibitors targeting Aurora-A.
Conclusions:
- Aurora-A is a significant target for cancer therapeutics.
- Targeting Aurora-A holds potential for eliminating cancer stem cells and treating malignancies.
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