Aurora kinase A and Aurora kinase B (Aurora A (AURKA) and Aurora B (AURKB))

Aurora kinase A and Aurora kinase B are closely related serine/threonine kinases that play pivotal roles in regulating the eukaryotic cell cycle, particularly during mitosis[2][4][9]. Aurora kinase A is required for entry into mitosis, centrosome maturation, and assembly of a functional mitotic spindle[1][4][5]. It localizes mainly to centrosomes and spindle poles, ensuring proper bipolar spindle formation and accurate chromosome segregation. Aurora kinase B, a key component of the chromosomal passenger complex (with proteins such as INCENP and Survivin), regulates chromatid cohesion, chromosome alignment, spindle assembly, and cytokinesis, and localizes to chromosomes and the central spindle during mitosis[5][7][9]. Both kinases are frequently overexpressed or hyperactivated in cancers, correlating with poor prognosis and making them attractive targets for small-molecule inhibitors in oncology drug development[2][4][9].

Other names

Aurora A: Serine/threonine-protein kinase 6, STK6, AIKAurora B: Serine/threonine-protein kinase 12, STK12, AIM-1Aur kinases

Inhibition of kinase activity at the ATP-binding site. Disruption of cell division leading to mitotic arrest and apoptosis. Antiproliferative effects on tumor cells[4][6].