KIF11

Kinesin Family Member 11 (KIF11), also known as Eg5 or Kinesin-5, is a microtubule-associated motor protein critical for mitotic spindle assembly and chromosome segregation during cell division. Functioning as a homotetramer, KIF11 generates mechanical forces through ATP-dependent movement along microtubules, facilitating the separation of spindle poles in the bipolar spindle formation. Its activity is tightly regulated in the G2/M phase of the cell cycle, intersecting with the Aurora kinase and PLK1 signaling pathways. Dysregulation of KIF11 disrupts mitotic fidelity, contributing to chromosomal instability and oncogenesis. Overexpression is observed in multiple cancers, including breast, pancreatic, and glioblastoma. Several KIF11 inhibitors (e.g., ispinesib, filanesib) have entered clinical trials, though neurotoxicity and limited efficacy in solid tumors remain challenges. Recent efforts focus on combination therapies with CDK or PARP inhibitors to enhance therapeutic windows.