NEK10 (NIMA-related kinase 10) is a member of the NEK serine/threonine kinase family, which plays diverse roles in cell cycle regulation, DNA damage response, and mitotic progression. Unlike other NEK members (e.g., NEK2. NEK7), NEK10 is less characterized but has gained attention for its potential involvement in cancer biology and cellular stress pathways. It contains a unique N-terminal domain and a conserved kinase domain, suggesting specialized regulatory mechanisms. Studies indicate NEK10 participates in the G2/M checkpoint control, possibly through interactions with cell cycle regulators like ATR/ATM kinases, and modulates DNA repair processes. Its role in phosphorylating downstream targets, such as components of the ERK or Akt pathways, remains under investigation.
NEK10 antibodies are essential tools for studying its expression, localization, and function. They are widely used in techniques like Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and immunoprecipitation to assess protein levels, subcellular distribution (e.g., cytoplasmic vs. nuclear), and post-translational modifications. Dysregulation of NEK10 has been implicated in breast cancer progression, with some studies linking its overexpression to tumor growth and therapy resistance. However, conflicting reports on its pro- or anti-tumorigenic roles highlight the need for further research. Commercial NEK10 antibodies vary in specificity; validation using knockout cell lines is critical due to potential cross-reactivity with other NEKs. Ongoing research aims to clarify NEK10's signaling networks and therapeutic potential in precision oncology.