Spindle And Kinetochore Associated Complex Subunit 1, often abbreviated as SKA1, is a crucial protein involved in the process of cell division. It is a part of the spindle and kinetochore associated complex, which plays a significant role in the accurate segregation of chromosomes during mitosis. This article delves into the background, structure, function, and significance of SKA1, particularly focusing on its human recombinant form.
SKA1 is a microtubule-binding subcomplex of the outer kinetochore. The kinetochore is a protein structure on chromosomes where the spindle fibers attach during cell division to pull sister chromatids apart. The SKA complex is composed of three subunits: SKA1, SKA2, and SKA3. These subunits work together to ensure proper chromosome alignment and segregation. The human recombinant form of SKA1 is produced using recombinant DNA technology, which allows for the expression of the protein in a controlled laboratory environment.
The primary function of SKA1 is to facilitate the attachment of spindle microtubules to the kinetochore, ensuring accurate chromosome segregation. This process is critical for maintaining genomic stability. SKA1 is involved in several key processes:
SKA1 is essential for proper cell division and genomic stability. Mutations or dysregulation of SKA1 can lead to chromosomal instability, which is a hallmark of many cancers. Research has shown that SKA1 is overexpressed in various types of cancer, including oral adenosquamous carcinoma . This overexpression is associated with increased cell proliferation and tumor progression.
Recent studies have focused on understanding the role of SKA1 in cancer and exploring its potential as a therapeutic target. For instance, silencing SKA1 expression using small interfering RNA (RNAi) has been shown to decrease cell proliferation and induce apoptosis in cancer cells . This suggests that targeting SKA1 could be a promising strategy for cancer therapy.