The kinase Plk1 has been studied primarily as a mitotic regulator in dividing cells, but de Cárcer et al. find that Plk1 deficiency or inhibition in mice causes nonmitotic defects in the vasculature, including aortic aneurysm and rupture, as well as defective vascular smooth muscle contractility. These results recommend a note of caution in the clinical use of PLK1 inhibitors as anticancer agents.
- Guillermo de Cárcer
- Paulina Wachowicz
- Marcos Malumbres
