Cyclin-dependent kinase 8

Ideogram human chromosome 13

Cyclin-dependent kinase 8

Cyclin-dependent kinase 8, also known as CDK8, is a protein-coding gene that plays a crucial role in cell cycle regulation and transcriptional regulation. It is a member of the cyclin-dependent kinase family, which are serine/threonine kinases that regulate the progression of the cell cycle by interacting with cyclins.

Function

CDK8 is a component of the mediator complex, which is involved in the regulation of RNA polymerase II transcription. It functions by phosphorylating the C-terminal domain of RNA polymerase II, thereby influencing transcriptional activity. CDK8 has been implicated in various cellular processes, including cell cycle progression, differentiation, and development.

Structure

The CDK8 protein consists of several domains, including a kinase domain that is responsible for its enzymatic activity. It forms complexes with cyclin C and mediator subunits, which are essential for its function in transcriptional regulation.

Regulation

The activity of CDK8 is tightly regulated in cells to ensure proper control of gene expression and cell cycle progression. It can be regulated by various mechanisms, including phosphorylation, protein-protein interactions, and subcellular localization.

Role in Disease

Dysregulation of CDK8 has been associated with various diseases, including cancer. Aberrant expression or activity of CDK8 can lead to uncontrolled cell proliferation and tumor formation. Therefore, CDK8 has emerged as a potential therapeutic target for cancer treatment.