We have isolated and characterized cDNA encoding a human 58-kDa protein kinase that is homologous to the cell division control (CDC) protein kinases. This protein kinase also contains a unique N-terminal domain that may potentially regulate its function. Due to its relatedness to p34CDC2, the human p58 cDNA was overexpressed in CHO cells to determine the effect on the cell cycle. Elevated expression of p58 in these cells resulted in prolonged late telophase and early G1 phase of the cell cycle. These p58 overexpressors showed a significantly increased frequency of tubulin midbodies as well as significant increases in mitotic abnormalities. Thus, proper regulation of p58 protein kinase is essential for normal cell cycle progression in these cells.