PKAentsyymiä

PKAentsyymiä, also known as protein kinase A (PKA) enzyme, is a crucial enzyme in cellular signaling pathways. It is a serine/threonine kinase that plays a vital role in regulating a vast array of cellular processes. PKA is activated by the cyclic nucleotide cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). When cAMP levels rise, it binds to the regulatory subunits of PKA, causing a conformational change that releases the active catalytic subunits. These activated catalytic subunits then phosphorylate specific serine or threonine residues on target proteins.

The phosphorylation events mediated by PKA are diverse and impact processes such as gene transcription, metabolism, cell growth and differentiation, and neuronal function. For example, PKA is involved in the breakdown of glycogen and the synthesis of glucose in response to hormonal signals like adrenaline. It also plays a significant role in learning and memory by modulating the activity of ion channels and receptors in neurons. Dysregulation of PKA activity has been implicated in various diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and neurological disorders, making it a significant target for therapeutic interventions. The enzyme's widespread influence underscores its fundamental importance in maintaining cellular homeostasis and responding to external stimuli.