SNF1AMPKtype

SNF1AMPKtype is a term used to describe the SNF1-AMPK family of energy-sensing kinases, a conserved group of serine/threonine protein kinases that monitor cellular energy status and coordinate metabolic responses. The SNF1-AMPK type is exemplified by the yeast SNF1 complex and by mammalian AMPK, highlighting a shared mechanism for maintaining energy homeostasis across diverse eukaryotes.

In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the SNF1 complex is a heterotrimer consisting of a catalytic α subunit (Snf1), a regulatory γ subunit (Snf4), and one of several regulatory β subunits (Sip1, Sip2, or Gal83). The α subunit contains the kinase domain, while the β and γ subunits regulate localization, substrate selection, and allosteric activation. Activation of Snf1 requires phosphorylation of Thr210 in the activation loop by upstream kinases Sak1, Tos3, or Elm1, and is modulated by AMP/ADP binding to the γ subunit.

Functionally, the SNF1-AMPK type responds to energy stress, promoting catabolic pathways that generate ATP and repressing glucose-repressed processes. In yeast, this includes induction of genes for utilizing alternative carbon sources and repression of pathways favored under high glucose. In mammals, AMPK serves as a central metabolic hub that similarly integrates energy signals to balance anabolic and catabolic activities, coordinating lipid, carbohydrate, and protein metabolism.

The SNF1AMPKtype thus denotes a conserved energy-sensing module with modular subunit architecture, regulated activation, and a broad role in maintaining cellular energy homeostasis across species.