Aurora kinase A

An Aurora kinase encoded by AURKA on chromosome 20q13, which is involved in regulating many mitotic events such as entry into mitosis. Aurora A levels rise during the G2 phase and peak early in mitosis. It regulates centrosome maturation by moderating the recruitment of proteins, such as TPX-2, Ajuba, Bora and Lats, which are essential for accumulating microtubule spindle components (e.g.,gamma-tubulin). Aurora A is associated with separation of centrosomes, phosphorylating the kinesin motor protein, Eg5; it also regulates the microtubule network that forms mitotic spindles by regulating the EXTAH multiprotein complex.

References in periodicals archive ?

It is known that Aurora kinase A and JAK2 pathway activation contributes to GVHD.

The researchers discovered that combined inhibition of Aurora kinase A and JAK2 promotes the differentiation of potent regulatory T cells, specialized immune cells that prevent GVHD.

Aurora kinase A and JAK2 also significantly reduced GVHD in mice and allowed for the development of anti-cancer immune cells.

Novel treatment may prevent graft-versus-host-disease

The researchers hypothesized that cotreatment with drugs that target both Aurora kinase A and JAK2 could prevent GVHD better than either drug alone.