Centromere protein E (CENP-E)

Centromere protein E (CENP-E) is a kinesin motor protein belonging to the Kinesin-7 family. It localizes to outer kinetochores during mitosis and is essential for proper chromosome alignment (congression) and attachment to spindle microtubules. CENP-E functions as a homodimer and has an N-terminal ATPase motor domain, a long coiled-coil stalk, and a C-terminal tail. Its motor activity is critical for tethering chromosomes to the spindle and facilitating their movement toward the metaphase plate. Dysregulation or inhibition of CENP-E disrupts chromosome alignment, can induce mitotic arrest, and contributes to chromosomal instability—making this protein a validated anticancer drug target.

Other names

Centromere-associated protein EKIF10Kinesin-7 family member

Inhibition of CENP-E's ATPase activity blocks its motor function, which prevents proper chromosome congression and leads to mitotic arrest. This disruption of chromosome alignment and segregation is the primary mechanism.