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Polo-like kinase 1 (Plk1) is a key regulator of mitotic progression and cell division in eukaryotes. It is highly expressed in tumor cells and considered a potential target for cancer therapy. Here, we report the discovery and application of a novel potent small-molecule inhibitor of mammalian Plk1, ZK-Thiazolidinone (TAL). We have extensively characterized TAL in vitro and addressed TAL specificity within cells by studying Plk1 functions in sister chromatid separation, centrosome maturation, and spindle assembly. Moreover, we have used TAL for a detailed analysis of Plk1 in relation to PICH and PRC1, two prominent interaction partners implicated in spindle assembly checkpoint function and cytokinesis, respectively. Specifically, we show that Plk1, when inactivated by TAL, spreads over the arms of chromosomes, resembling the localization of its binding partner PICH, and that both proteins are mutually dependent on each other for correct localization. Finally, we show that Plk1 activity is essential for cleavage furrow formation and ingression, leading to successful cytokinesis.

Original publication

DOI

10.1091/mbc.e07-05-0517

Type

Journal article

Journal

Mol Biol Cell

Publication Date

10/2007

Volume

18

Pages

4024 - 4036

Keywords

Anaphase, Aniline Compounds, Animals, Cell Cycle Proteins, Cell Line, Tumor, Centrosome, Chromatids, Cytokinesis, DNA Helicases, Enzyme Activation, Humans, Mice, Mitosis, Mitotic Index, Protein Kinase Inhibitors, Protein-Serine-Threonine Kinases, Proto-Oncogene Proteins, Spindle Apparatus, Thiazolidines