Kinesin-like protein KIF13A (KIF13A)

Kinesin-like protein KIF13A (KIF13A) is a member of the kinesin-3 family of microtubule-based motor proteins. It functions as a plus end–directed ATP-dependent motor crucial for intracellular vesicle trafficking, particularly mediating the transport of recycling endosome tubules and mannose-6-phosphate receptor–containing vesicles from the trans-Golgi network to the plasma membrane[1][2][4]. KIF13A also plays a key role in endosomal recycling, the biogenesis of recycling endosomal tubules, and steady-state distribution of late endosomes and lysosomes. In various cell types, it is required for processes such as cell polarity, migration, cytokinesis, and melanosome maturation[4][1]. At the molecular level, KIF13A dimerization and motility are tightly regulated by its structure, notably a conserved proline residue that restricts dimerization. This inhibition is relieved through binding with Rab22A, which enables the motor’s transition to an active dimer state critical for recycling endosome dynamics[6][3][4]. Mutations or disruptions in KIF13A’s function are associated with inherited disorders of pigmentation and lysosome-related organelle biogenesis[1][4]. KIF13A is not currently considered a direct therapeutic target, and to date, there are no known drugs that interact specifically with this protein.

Other names

Kinesin family member 13ARBKINbA500C11.2homolog of mouse KIF13A mannose-6-phosphate receptor transporterkinesin-like protein RBKIN