Cellular “Antennae” Regulation Discovery Could unlock New Disease Treatments
Istanbul, Turkey – Researchers at Koç University have identified key molecular mechanisms controlling the function of primary cilia – tiny, antenna-like structures on the surface of most cells critical for sensing thier environment. The study, published in Communications Biology in 2025, reveals the essential role of DYRK kinases, a family of enzymes, in maintaining cilia length, stability, and shape.
Primary cilia are vital for regulating fundamental cellular processes including growth, development, and adaptation. Dr. Elif Nur Fırat Karalar,from Koç University’s Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics,led the research team which found that malfunctions in DYRK kinases lead to cilia that are abnormally long,structurally deformed,or unstable,disrupting a cell’s ability to respond to external signals.
The findings advance understanding of fundamental cell biology and offer new insights into health conditions linked to ciliary dysfunction, such as developmental disorders, kidney diseases, and vision loss. researchers believe the discovery may also reveal potential therapeutic targets for complex diseases.
Source: Arslanhan, M. D., et al. (2025). Kinase activity of DYRK family members is required for regulating primary cilium length, stability and morphology. Communications Biology. doi.org/10.1038/s42003-025-08373-5
