Kinasiinipolut

Kinasiinipolut, the Finnish term for kinase pathways, are networks of intracellular signaling cascades that coordinate cellular responses to external and internal cues. They are centered on protein kinases—enzymes that catalyze the transfer of phosphate groups from ATP to substrate proteins—thereby altering activity, localization, or interactions. Most kinase pathways begin with a signal detector, such as a receptor on the cell surface or a sensor within the cell, and proceed through phosphorylation events that amplify and diversify the incoming signal.

Scaffold and adaptor proteins organize specific sequences to ensure fidelity and speed. Key features include amplification, modularity, and cross-talk; regulation by phosphatases and feedback loops; and distinct temporal dynamics, such as rapid, transient signaling versus sustained responses. Major examples include the MAPK pathways (ERK, JNK, p38), which regulate proliferation, differentiation, and stress responses; the PI3K-AKT-mTOR pathway, which controls metabolism, growth, and survival; and other cascades such as JAK-STAT and PKC-mediated routes.

Dysregulation of kinasiinipolut can contribute to cancer, metabolic disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases. Therapeutic targeting includes kinase inhibitors used in oncology and other fields; research employs phosphoproteomics, genetic perturbations, and computational modeling to map and understand signaling networks. See also: signal transduction, protein kinase, phosphorylation.