GAK (protein)

GAK (protein) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the GAK gene. It is also known as Cyclin G-associated kinase, a key component in various biological processes including intracellular transport, cell division, and virus infection.

Function

GAK is a serine/threonine kinase that is associated with the cyclin G protein. It plays a crucial role in the clathrin-mediated endocytosis, a process that internalizes extracellular materials and membrane proteins into the cell. This process is essential for the normal functioning of cells, including nutrient uptake, regulation of signal transduction, and entry of viruses into host cells.

Clinical significance

Alterations in the GAK gene have been associated with various human diseases. For instance, mutations in the GAK gene have been linked to Parkinson's disease, a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the progressive loss of motor control. Moreover, GAK has been implicated in the replication of several viruses, including the hepatitis C virus and the dengue virus, suggesting a potential role in viral pathogenesis.

Structure

The GAK protein consists of a kinase domain and a tensin-like domain. The kinase domain is responsible for the protein's enzymatic activity, while the tensin-like domain is thought to mediate interactions with other proteins.

Interactions

GAK has been shown to interact with various proteins, including clathrin, auxilin, and cyclin G. These interactions are crucial for the protein's function in clathrin-mediated endocytosis and cell cycle regulation.

See also

• Cyclin
• Endocytosis
• Parkinson's disease