Investigating a role for Aurora Kinase A in cystic kidney disease

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a condition which causes the kidneys to lose its function due to the development of multiple cysts. It is caused by mutations in several genes such as INPP5E or PKD1/2. This thesis shows that genetic knockout of Inpp5e or Pkd1 in conjunction with Aurora Kinase A (Aurka) can ameliorate PKD in mice, thereby identifying AURKA as a contributor to this condition. The mechanism by which AURKA causes PKD is also explored. Overall, this thesis suggests that the development of drugs which disrupt AURKA may prove promising for PKD treatment.