Katanin P60 Subunit B 1 (KATNB1)

Katanin is a heterodimer that consists of a 60 kDa ATPase (p60 subunit A 1) and an 80 kDa accessory protein (p80 subunit B 1). The p60 subunit acts to sever and disassemble microtubules, while the p80 subunit targets the enzyme to the centrosome. Katanin is a member of the AAA family of ATPases. Participates in a complex which severs microtubules in an ATP-dependent manner. May act to target the enzymatic subunit of this complex to sites of action such as the centrosome. Microtubule severing may promote rapid reorganization of cellular microtubule arrays and the release of microtubules from the centrosome following nucleation. Microtubule release from the mitotic spindle poles may allow depolymerization of the microtubule end proximal to the spindle pole, leading to poleward microtubule flux and poleward motion of chromosome.