Mitotic failures in cancer: Aurora B kinase and its potential role in the development of aneuploidy.

One of the basic requirements during the process of cell division is to maintain genetic integrity and ensure normal ploidy. The family of Aurora kinases, composed of Aurora A, B and C, takes a major role in the control of centrosome cycle, mitotic entry, chromosome condensation and coordination of chromosomal movements. Deregulation of kinase expression was described in a series of different malignancies which was also associated with aneuploidy. Recently, Aurora kinases gained significant interest as potential therapeutic targets in oncology. While there is increasing evidence about the activities of Aurora A kinase during cancer progression, data are controversial regarding the role of Aurora B. In this review the biology of Aurora kinases and its potential relation to cancer progression is discussed with special focus on functional changes and determination of Aurora B kinase.