Kinesin spindle protein inhibitors as anticancer agents

Kinesin spindle protein (KSP), or Hs Eg5, is a member of the kinesin superfamily of molecular motor proteins that utilise the energy generated from the hydrolysis of ATP to transport vesicles, organelles and microtubules. KSP plays essential roles in mitotic spindle function and its inhibition prevents normal bipolar spindle formation, leading to mitotic arrest and subsequently to apoptosis of cells. Therefore, KSP inhibitors have potential as novel anticancer therapeutics. Since the discovery of monastrol in 1999, many types of KSP inhibitors have been reported. This review describes the mechanism of action and development of different types of KSP inhibitors.