BTB-1

BTB-1 (CAS No.: 86030-08-2) is a small-molecule inhibitor that selectively and reversibly targets the kinesin-8 family mitotic motor protein Kif18A, a key regulator of chromosome alignment and microtubule dynamics during cell division, positioning it as a valuable chemical probe in mitosis and cytoskeletal research. By inhibiting Kif18A activity, BTB-1 disrupts microtubule-based motility and interferes with proper mitotic progression, leading to mitotic arrest and accumulation of cells in mitosis, as demonstrated in human cancer cell models such as HeLa cells. The compound exhibits inhibitory activity in the low micromolar range and shows notable selectivity for Kif18A over other kinesin family members under comparable conditions, supporting its utility in dissecting kinesin-specific functions. Mechanistically, BTB-1 impairs Kif18A-dependent microtubule gliding, thereby affecting spindle dynamics and chromosome congression, which are critical processes in proliferating cells. This profile makes BTB-1 particularly relevant for studies of mitotic regulation, spindle assembly checkpoint signaling, and the development of targeted antimitotic strategies in oncology research. Experimental applications typically involve cell-based assays or biochemical systems, where concentrations are selected based on specific assay requirements and research objectives.