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Review
. 2025 Jan 23;75(1):10.
doi: 10.1007/s12031-025-02308-9.

Decoding the Role of Kinesin Superfamily Proteins in Glioma Progression

Mohamed J Saadh  1 , Zahraa Sabah Ghnim  2 , Morug Salih Mahdi  3 , Muktesh Chandra  4 , Suhas Ballal  5 , Lakshay Bareja  6 , Kamlesh Chaudhary  7 , R S K Sharma  8 , Sofia Gupta  9 , Waam Mohammed Taher  10 , Mariem Alwan  11 , Mahmood Jasem Jawad  12 , Atheer Khdyair Hamad  13
Affiliations
Review

Decoding the Role of Kinesin Superfamily Proteins in Glioma Progression

Mohamed J Saadh et al. J Mol Neurosci. .

Abstract

Glioma is a highly aggressive and invasive brain tumor with limited treatment options, highlighting the need for novel therapeutic approaches. Kinesin superfamily proteins (KIFs) are a diverse group of motor proteins that play essential roles in cellular processes such as mitosis, intracellular transport, and signal transduction, all of which are crucial for tumorigenesis. This review focuses on the multifaceted role of KIFs in glioma, examining their clinical relevance, contribution to tumor progression, and potential as therapeutic targets. We discuss how KIFs influence key aspects of glioma biology, including cell proliferation, invasion, migration, and metastasis. Furthermore, we explore the regulation of the cell cycle and critical signaling pathways associated with glioma, such as PI3K-Akt, Wnt/β-catenin, and Hedgehog signaling by KIFs. The review also addresses the emerging interplay between KIFs and non-coding RNAs, including circular RNAs (circRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs), in glioma progression. Finally, we examine current therapeutic strategies targeting KIFs, including immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and small-molecule inhibitors, and their potential to improve treatment outcomes for glioma patients. By synthesizing these insights, this review underscores the significance of KIFs in glioma pathogenesis and their promise as novel therapeutic targets in the fight against glioma.

Keywords: Glioblastoma; Glioma; Kinesin superfamily; Motor proteins; Signaling pathway.

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Conflict of interest statement

Declarations. Ethics Approval: This review article adheres to the highest ethical standards in research and publication. It ensures that all sources are accurately cited and that the contributions of original authors are duly acknowledged. Conflicts of interest have been transparently addressed, and all relevant funding sources are disclosed. Furthermore, this article respects the principles of integrity and objectivity, aiming to provide an unbiased synthesis of existing literature while contributing meaningfully to the academic discourse in the field. Consent to Participate: Not applicable. Consent for Publication: Not applicable. Competing Interests: The authors declare no competing interests.

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