Cyclin E in normal physiology and disease states

Trends Cell Biol. 2021 Sep;31(9):732-746. doi: 10.1016/j.tcb.2021.05.001. Epub 2021 May 27.

Abstract

E-type cyclins, collectively called cyclin E, represent key components of the core cell cycle machinery. In mammalian cells, two E-type cyclins, E1 and E2, activate cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2) and drive cell cycle progression by phosphorylating several cellular proteins. Abnormally elevated activity of cyclin E-CDK2 has been documented in many human tumor types. Moreover, cyclin E overexpression mediates resistance of tumor cells to various therapeutic agents. Recent work has revealed that the role of cyclin E extends well beyond cell proliferation and tumorigenesis, and it may regulate a diverse array of physiological and pathological processes. In this review, we discuss these various cyclin E functions and the potential for therapeutic targeting of cyclin E and cyclin E-CDK2 kinase.

Keywords: CDK2; cancer; cell cycle; cyclin E; cyclin-dependent kinases.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Cycle
  • Cell Proliferation
  • Cyclin E* / genetics
  • Cyclins* / genetics
  • Humans

Substances

  • Cyclin E
  • Cyclins