The balance of Polo-like kinase 1 in tumorigenesis
2009

The Role of Polo-like Kinase 1 in Cancer

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Lu Lin-Yu, Yu Xiaochun

Primary Institution: University of Michigan Medical School

Hypothesis

Is the balance of Polo-like kinase 1 (Plk1) crucial for tumorigenesis?

Conclusion

Both overexpression and down-regulation of Plk1 can lead to tumor formation, indicating that its levels must be tightly regulated.

Supporting Evidence

  • Plk1 plays a key role in ensuring normal mitosis.
  • Overexpression of Plk1 is associated with various cancers.
  • Down-regulation of Plk1 can also induce tumor formation.

Takeaway

Polo-like kinase 1 helps cells divide properly, and having too much or too little of it can cause cancer.

Methodology

This review summarizes current understandings of Plk1's role in mitosis and its association with tumorigenesis.

Limitations

The review does not provide original experimental data but summarizes existing literature.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1747-1028-4-4

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