The Oncogenic Role of AURKA in Gastric Cancer: Mechanisms, Pathways, and Clinical Relevance

Aurora kinase A (AURKA) is a serine/threonine kinase that plays a critical role in cell cycle regulation, particularly during mitosis. Recent studies have identified AURKA as an oncogene overexpressed in various cancers, including gastric cancer (GC). This review summarizes the molecular mechanisms by which AURKA contributes to GC pathogenesis, including its roles in cell proliferation, apoptosis inhibition, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and cancer stemness. AURKA regulates key signaling pathways such as PI3K/Akt, Wnt/β-catenin, NF-κB, and JAK2/STAT3, promoting tumor growth, metastasis, and therapy resistance. Additionally, AURKA interacts with critical tumor suppressors like p53 and PTEN, further enhancing its oncogenic potential. Clinical studies have demonstrated that AURKA overexpression correlates with poor prognosis in GC patients, highlighting its potential as a diagnostic and therapeutic target. This review also discusses the efficacy of AURKA inhibitors in preclinical settings, offering insights into their therapeutic potential. By elucidating the multifaceted roles of AURKA in GC, this review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of its mechanisms and implications for future research and treatment strategies.