Adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (also known as cyclic AMP, cAMP, or 3',5'-cyclic adenosine monophosphate) is a second messenger crucial in many biological processes. It is derived from adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and used for intracellular signal transduction in many different organisms, conveying the cAMP-dependent pathway.

Structure and Synthesis[edit | edit source]

cAMP is a derivative of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and used for intracellular signal transduction. It is synthesized from ATP by an enzyme called adenylyl cyclase located at the cell membrane. Adenylyl cyclase is activated by a range of signaling molecules through the activation of adenylyl cyclase stimulatory G (Gs)-protein-coupled receptors.

Function[edit | edit source]

cAMP is a second messenger, used for intracellular signal transduction, such as transferring into cells the effects of hormones like glucagon and adrenaline, which cannot pass through the plasma membrane. It is involved in the activation of protein kinases and regulates the effects of adrenaline and glucagon. It also regulates the passage of Ca^2+ through ion channels.

Role in Human Physiology[edit | edit source]

In humans, cAMP affects the function of protein kinase A (PKA). PKA is an enzyme that has been linked to glucose metabolism, gene transcription, and immune system regulation. cAMP plays a key role in the regulation of ion channels, as well as the activation of certain genes.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

AlphaHelixSection (yellow).svg
This article is a stub related to biochemistry. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!


WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD