Centromere protein C (CENP-C)

Centromere protein C (CENP-C) is a highly conserved inner kinetochore protein that functions as a scaffolding and structural component essential for the formation, identity, and maintenance of centromeres and kinetochores during cell division[1][2][3]. CENP-C directly binds centromeric DNA and is required for the recruitment and assembly of multiple kinetochore proteins, helping ensure accurate chromosome segregation during mitosis[1][2][3]. Loss or depletion of CENP-C leads to mitotic defects, chromosome missegregation, and can trigger apoptosis in human cells[2]. Structurally, CENP-C contains several functional domains, including a DNA-binding region and a conserved cupin domain involved in dimerization and centromere targeting[1][2]. CENP-C is a key member of the constitutive centromere-associated network (CCAN), working closely with centromere-specific histone CENP-A to maintain epigenetic centromere identity and propagation through cell cycles[2][3]. While direct links to therapeutics are lacking, its role in chromosomal instability highlights its relevance to cancer biology and chromosome segregation disorders[2]. Notes: - CENP-C is not typically considered a "therapeutic target" (in the sense of drugs binding and modulating activity), and there are no known drugs or small molecules that directly target it in clinical use or study[2][3]. Its importance is primarily structural and regulatory within the chromosome segregation machinery. - No validated biomarkers or safety considerations are described in the context of CENP-C as a drug target. - The information returns null for fields commonly filled for enzymes, receptors, or druggable targets, as CENP-C does not currently fit those categories.

Other names

CENPCCENPC1ICEN7hcp-4MIF2Centromere autoantigen CInterphase centromere complex protein 7