Kinases

Kinases are a type of enzyme that catalyzes the transfer of phosphate groups from high-energy, phosphate-donating molecules to specific substrates. This process, known as phosphorylation, results in a functional change of the substrate - a change in its activity, cellular location, or association with other proteins. The kinase enzymes are vital parts of metabolism and cell signaling.

Function

Kinases mediate the transfer of a phosphate moiety from a high energy molecule (such as ATP) to their substrate molecule. This reaction influences the substrate molecule in various ways, altering its activity, turning it on or off, stabilizing it, or determining its location.

Classification

Kinases are classified into broad groups by the substrate they act upon: protein kinases, lipid kinases, and carbohydrate kinases. Protein kinases are the most common group, and they are further classified into subgroups according to their specific substrate.

Role in disease

Abnormal kinase activity can lead to diseases such as cancer and diabetes. For example, mutations in kinases that result in the enzyme being permanently active can cause uncontrolled cell growth and cancer. Because they regulate key functions, kinases are a focus of drug research.

See also

• Phosphatase
• Protein kinase
• Lipid kinase
• Carbohydrate kinase

Kinases Resources
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