Gene KIF5B
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Also known as
kinesin family member 5B, kinesin heavy chain, ubiquitous kinesin heavy chain, UKHCOverview
KIF5B (Kinesin Family Member 5B) encodes a ubiquitously expressed kinesin motor protein essential for intracellular transport along microtubules. KIF5B moves cargo toward the cell periphery (plus-end directed transport) and is involved in transporting mitochondria, lysosomes, endoplasmic reticulum, and various signaling molecules. This motor protein is critical for proper cell function and division.KIF5B is known for forming oncogenic fusion genes in certain cancers, particularly lung adenocarcinoma (KIF5B-RET fusion) and other malignancies. Beyond cancer, KIF5B function affects cellular organization and transport efficiency. Variants affecting KIF5B function can impact cellular logistics and potentially influence various physiological processes.
Understanding your KIF5B genetic status provides insights into intracellular transport mechanisms and potential cancer susceptibility markers. This information may be relevant for understanding certain cancer fusion gene risks and cellular transport efficiency.