Kinesin family member 5A (KIF5A)

Kinesin family member 5A (KIF5A) is a motor protein belonging to the kinesin superfamily, characterized by its role in ATP-dependent intracellular transport along microtubules, primarily within neurons. KIF5A is crucial for anterograde (forward) transport of organelles, proteins, and RNAs in axons and dendrites, supporting neuronal survival and function. Structurally, it contains an N-terminal motor domain responsible for microtubule binding and movement, a central coiled-coil stalk for dimerization, and a C-terminal domain for cargo binding. Mutations in the KIF5A gene are linked to hereditary spastic paraplegia 10, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, reflecting its importance in neuronal health and axonal transport. KIF5A dysfunction can lead to the accumulation of mislocalized proteins and organelles, contributing to neurodegeneration. Emerging small molecule inhibitors, such as epigallocatechin gallate, have been computationally explored for disease intervention by disrupting aberrant mutated KIF5A activity.

Other names

KIF5ASPG10 (previous HGNC symbol)Kinesin heavy chain isoform 5AKinesin superfamily protein 5A

Inhibition of microtubule motor activity