Kizuna centrosomal protein (KIZ)

Kizuna centrosomal protein (KIZ) is an intracellular protein encoded by the KIZ gene, primarily localized to the centrosome[1][2][3][6][10]. It plays a critical role in maintaining the structural integrity and cohesion of the pericentriolar material (PCM) during mitosis by stabilizing spindle poles and preventing centrosomal fragmentation under microtubule-generated stresses[2][3]. Kizuna is phosphorylated by Polo-like kinase 1 (Plk1) and retains association with the mother centrosome after duplication[2][9]. Disruption of KIZ function leads to defective spindle formation and chromosomal missegregation, as well as defects in ciliary function at the basal body[2]. Mutations in KIZ cause autosomal recessive rod-cone dystrophy and have been linked to retinitis pigmentosa, implicating its importance in retinal sensory cell maintenance[1][2][3]. No direct evidence identifies KIZ as a therapeutic target, nor are there known drugs or biomarker roles directly associated with it[3][7].

Other names

KIZC20orf19KizunaNCRNA00153PLK1S1RP69HT013