Non-canonical roles of mitotic proteins in cortical neurons

Although neurons are post-mitotic, many mitotic proteins remain expressed in the adult mammalian brain, particularly in the cerebral cortex. 

Beyond their role in cell division, mitotic proteins have non-canonical functions in cortical neurons, impacting neuronal migration, architecture, and functional modulation.

Altered expression or mutations of mitotic proteins are increasingly linked to brain disorders, including primary microcephaly and Alzheimer’s disease .

Current models of neurodevelopmental disorders often overlook how the noncanonical functions of mitotic proteins may disrupt neuronal generation and maintenance, and potentially the organisation of neural circuits.

The role of mitotic proteins in neurodegenerative disorders remains controversial, particularly regarding their direct impact on disease pathways.

https://www.cell.com/trends/neurosciences/fulltext/S0166-2236(25)00105-5

https://sciencemission.com/mitotic-proteins-in-cortical-neurons