Cyclin-dependent kinase 3

Ideogram human chromosome 17

Cyclin-dependent kinase 3

Cyclin-dependent kinase 3, also known as CDK3, is a protein-coding gene that plays a crucial role in cell cycle regulation. It is a member of the cyclin-dependent kinase family, which are serine/threonine kinases that control the progression of the cell cycle by interacting with cyclins. CDK3 specifically interacts with cyclin C to form an active kinase complex.

Function

CDK3 is involved in the regulation of cell cycle progression by phosphorylating key substrates that control the transition between different phases of the cell cycle. It is primarily active during the G1 phase of the cell cycle and plays a role in promoting cell cycle entry and progression.

Structure

The CDK3 protein consists of several domains, including a kinase domain that is responsible for its enzymatic activity. It also contains cyclin-binding motifs that allow it to interact with cyclin C and form a functional kinase complex.

Regulation

The activity of CDK3 is tightly regulated by various mechanisms, including the binding of cyclin C and the phosphorylation of specific residues within the protein. Additionally, CDK inhibitors can modulate the activity of CDK3 and prevent aberrant cell cycle progression.

Clinical significance

Aberrant regulation of CDK3 has been implicated in various human diseases, including cancer. Dysregulation of CDK3 activity can lead to uncontrolled cell proliferation and tumor formation. Therefore, targeting CDK3 has emerged as a potential therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment.

See also

• Cyclin-dependent kinase
• Cell cycle regulation