Microtubule plus-end-directed kinetochore motor which plays an important role in chromosome congression, microtubule-kinetochore conjugation and spindle assembly checkpoint activation. Drives chromosome congression (alignment of chromosomes at the spindle equator resulting in the formation of the metaphase plate) by mediating the lateral sliding of polar chromosomes along spindle microtubules towards the spindle equator and by aiding the establishment and maintenance of connections between kinetochores and spindle microtubules (PubMed:
7889940, PubMed:
23891108, PubMed:
25395579). The transport of pole-proximal chromosomes towards the spindle equator is favored by microtubule tracks that are detyrosinated (PubMed:
25908662). Acts as a processive bi-directional tracker of dynamic microtubule tips; after chromosomes have congressed, continues to play an active role at kinetochores, enhancing their links with dynamic microtubule ends (PubMed:
23955301). Suppresses chromosome congression in NDC80-depleted cells and contributes positively to congression only when microtubules are stabilized (PubMed:
25743205). Plays an important role in the formation of stable attachments between kinetochores and spindle microtubules (PubMed:
17535814) The stabilization of kinetochore- microtubule attachment also requires CENPE-dependent localization of other proteins to the kinetochore including BUB1B, MAD1 and MAD2. Plays a role in spindle assembly checkpoint activation (SAC) via its interaction with BUB1B resulting in the activation of its kinase activity, which is important for activating SAC. Necessary for the mitotic checkpoint signal at individual kinetochores to prevent aneuploidy due to single chromosome loss (By similarity).
