Kinesin family member 18B (KIF18B) (KIF18B)

Kinesin family member 18B (KIF18B) is a member of the kinesin-8 family of microtubule-based motor proteins, primarily known for its role in regulating microtubule dynamics during the mitotic phase of the cell cycle (UniProt: Q86Z91). It localizes to the plus ends of astral microtubules and works in conjunction with other proteins like EB1 to control microtubule length, which is vital for proper spindle apparatus positioning and chromosome alignment (PubMed: 20624901). In clinical contexts, KIF18B is frequently overexpressed in a variety of solid tumors, including hepatocellular carcinoma, lung adenocarcinoma, and cervical cancer, where it is often associated with advanced tumor stage and poor patient survival (PubMed: 28651314, PubMed: 30106433). As a therapeutic target, KIF18B is being investigated for its potential to be inhibited via RNA interference (siRNA/shRNA) or small molecules to trigger mitotic catastrophe and inhibit cancer cell proliferation (PubMed: 32854100). Its role as a biomarker is also significant, as high mRNA levels can serve as a predictor of recurrence and chemoresistance in certain malignancies (PubMed: 29743435).

Other names

Kinesin-like protein KIF18BKIF18B

Inhibition of microtubule-based motor activity or reduction of mRNA expression to disrupt mitotic spindle dynamics, leading to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis.