KOR1

KOR1 is a gene found in the organism Saccharomyces cerevisiae, commonly known as baker's yeast. This gene encodes a protein that is a component of the Kinetochore-Microtubule Outer 1 (KMO1) complex. The KMO1 complex plays a crucial role in the process of chromosome segregation during cell division. Specifically, it is involved in the attachment of spindle microtubules to the kinetochores, which are protein structures that assemble on the centromeres of chromosomes. Proper microtubule attachment is essential for ensuring that sister chromatids are accurately separated and distributed to daughter cells. Mutations in the KOR1 gene can lead to defects in chromosome segregation, resulting in aneuploidy, a condition where cells have an abnormal number of chromosomes. This can have significant consequences for cell viability and function. Research on KOR1 and its associated complex continues to shed light on the fundamental mechanisms of mitosis and the importance of accurate chromosome segregation. Understanding these processes in yeast can provide insights into similar mechanisms in higher eukaryotes, including humans, and may have implications for understanding diseases associated with chromosomal instability.