Work

Polo-like kinase 4: A molecular linchpin in cancer and its management

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Genomic instability and cell cycle dysregulation are considered hallmarks of cancer. Polo-like kinase 4 (PLK4), a member of the PLK family, is essential for faithful centriole duplication, which, when dysregulated, contributes to genomic instability, cell cycle disruption, and cancer development. PLK4 overexpression has been correlated with progression, metastasis, and poor patient survival in multiple cancers. However, the in-depth understanding of signaling pathways and the regulation of PLK4 in cancers continues to evolve. Similarly, the strategy of PLK4 inhibition for cancer management is currently being actively investigated. This review discusses the existing knowledge on the role and function of PLK4 and its relationship with genomic instability and cancer. Additionally, we have summarized studies showing the association of PLK4 with multiple cancers and how its modulation affects cancer progression. Further, we have discussed PLK4 inhibitors and molecular pathways that could be associated with PLK4 and can open new avenues in cancer management.

Source: iScience

DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2025.114186

Authors: Durdana Muntaqua, Gagan Chhabra, Karla B. Anaya Aldrete, Nihal Ahmad

Institutions: University of Wisconsin–Madison, William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Microtubule and mitosis dynamics

Subfield: Cell Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,240