Kinesin family member 5C (KIF5C)

Kinesin family member 5C (KIF5C) is a neuron-specific heavy chain motor protein belonging to the kinesin superfamily. It forms a tetramer complex with another heavy chain and two light chains and is responsible for ATP-dependent transport of organelles, vesicles, and protein complexes along microtubules, predominantly in the central nervous system. KIF5C is especially enriched in lower motor neurons, where it plays a crucial role in organelle trafficking, synaptic transmission, and maintenance of neuronal integrity. Mutations in KIF5C are associated with complex cortical dysplasia and brain malformations, reflecting its critical function in neuronal development and axonal transport processes[1][2][3][4]. There is substantial functional redundancy with related kinesins (KIF5A, KIF5B), but KIF5C has distinctive expression and physiological roles, especially in mature motor neurons[1][3].

Other names

Kinesin heavy chain isoform 5CKIAA0531NKHC2Kinesin-1, neuron-specific kinesin heavy chain 2CDCBM2KINNNKHCNKHC-2