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SKA2/FAM33A: A novel gene implicated in cell cycle, tumorigenesis, and psychiatric disorders

Mengyu Xie1,2, Youquan Bu1

  • 1Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, ChongQing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.

Genes & Diseases
|March 26, 2019
PubMed

Insights

The spindle and KT associated 2 (SKA2) gene is crucial for cell division and linked to cancer and psychiatric disorders. Its expression is regulated by various factors, highlighting its potential as a clinical biomarker.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics
  • Oncology

Background:

  • SKA2 (spindle and KT associated 2), also known as FAM33A, is involved in cell cycle regulation.
  • SKA2 forms the SKA complex with SKA1 and SKA3, essential for mitotic progression.
  • Dysregulation of SKA2 is implicated in tumorigenesis and psychiatric disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review SKA2 gene and protein characteristics.
  • To elucidate SKA2's physiological functions and regulatory mechanisms.
  • To summarize SKA2's translational potential as a biomarker.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on SKA2.
  • Analysis of SKA2's role in cell cycle and mitosis.
  • Investigation of SKA2's transcriptional regulation.

Main Results:

  • SKA2 is over-expressed in cancers (e.g., lung, breast) but downregulated in depression.
  • SKA2 expression is modulated by transcription factors (NF-κΒ, CREB), miRNAs, and DNA methylation.
  • SKA2 plays a critical role in maintaining the metaphase plate and spindle checkpoint silencing.

Conclusions:

  • SKA2 is a key regulator of cell division with dual roles in cancer and psychiatric conditions.
  • Understanding SKA2 regulation offers insights into disease pathogenesis.
  • SKA2 holds promise as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker.
Keywords:
Cell cycleDNA methylationFAM33AGene expression regulationSKA2Tumor

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