The Acidophilic Kinases PLK2 and PLK3: Structure, Substrate Targeting and Inhibition

PLK2 and PLK3 are two closely related acidophilic kinases belonging to the Polo-like kinases (PLKs), a family of five members in mammals with a central role in cell cycle and related events. PLK1 is the most investigated enzyme from both physiological and pharmaceutical points of view, however, several specialized cellular functions of PLK2 and PLK3 have been recently discovered paving the way to deepened studies on their biological roles and their feasible selection as future therapeutic targets. Our review aims to provide a summarized view of the current knowledge regarding PLK2 and PLK3 kinases, including substrate specificity and signaling pathways directly affected by these kinases. Finally, an overview of PLK2 and PLK3 pharmacological regulation and perspectives in future achievements are proposed. Keywords: Acidophilic kinases, clinical trials, inhibitors, Polo-like kinases, PLK2, PLK3.