The KIF23 gene provides instructions for making a protein that is part of the kinesin family of proteins. Many proteins in the kinesin family are essential for transporting materials within cells. Kinesin proteins function like freight trains that transport cargo along a track-like system made from structures called microtubules. Some kinesins also help maintain microtubules. As well as functioning like a track, microtubules make up the structural framework of cells and help cells move.
The KIF23 protein plays an important role in cytokinesis, which is the stage during cell division in which dividing cells separate from one another. Specifically, this protein attaches (binds) with the protein produced from the RACGAP1 gene to form a complex called centralspindlin, which is a critical regulator of cytokinesis.
Other Names
CHO1; KNSL5; MKLP-1; MKLP1
Related Genetics Topics
Identifiers
- NCBI Gene: 9493
- OMIM: 605064
Source: MedlinePlus Genetics, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
