CDK20 (cyclin-dependent kinase 20), also known as CCRK (cell-cycle related kinase), is a transcriptional subfamily kinase 1 with dual roles in cell cycle regulation and ciliary function. Mechanistically, CDK20 acts as a cyclin-dependent activating kinase (CAK) that phosphorylates and activates CDK2 (Thr-160) to regulate cell cycle progression 2. In primary cilia, CDK20 interacts with TBC1D32/BROMI to phosphorylate and activate ICK/CILK1 kinase, controlling intraflagellar transport turnaround and proper cilium structure 3. CDK20 also competes with NRF2 for KEAP1 binding, enhancing NRF2 transcriptional activity and reducing cellular reactive oxygen species levels, thereby promoting radiochemoresistance in lung cancer 4. Additionally, CDK20 orchestrates interconnected signaling including Wnt, EZH2/NF-κB, and KEAP1-NRF2 pathways 2. In nephrotic syndrome, CDK20 regulates DLC1 within a Rho-like GTPase regulatory network controlling podocyte migration 5. Clinically, CDK20 is significantly upregulated in multiple cancers (ovary, brain, colon, stomach, liver, lung, osteosarcoma) where it correlates with poor prognosis 267. CDK20 represents a promising therapeutic target for cancer and kidney disease 46.