STK35L1

STK35L1 (Serine/Threonine Kinase 35 Like 1), also known as Clik1 (CLK-interacting kinase 1), is a protein that in humans is encoded by the STK35L1 gene. This protein belongs to the serine/threonine kinase family, a group of enzymes that play critical roles in cell signaling, cell cycle control, and apoptosis. The specific functions of STK35L1 in cellular processes and its implications in human diseases are areas of ongoing research.

Function

STK35L1 is involved in various cellular processes, including cell cycle regulation, stress response, and possibly autophagy. As a kinase, it phosphorylates specific serine or threonine residues on target proteins, altering their activity, localization, or stability, and thereby modulating cellular signaling pathways. The exact substrates and signaling pathways regulated by STK35L1, however, remain to be fully elucidated.

Gene and Expression

The STK35L1 gene is located on human chromosome 20. It is expressed in a variety of tissues, with higher expression levels observed in specific organs such as the heart and skeletal muscle. The regulation of its expression is thought to be complex, involving multiple transcription factors and possibly influenced by cellular stress conditions.

Clinical Significance

While the full clinical significance of STK35L1 is still under investigation, preliminary studies suggest it may be involved in several pathophysiological processes. For example, alterations in STK35L1 expression or function have been explored in the context of cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Its role in these conditions, however, is not yet fully understood, and further research is needed to clarify its potential as a therapeutic target or biomarker.

Research Directions

Current research on STK35L1 is focused on identifying its substrates and interacting partners, understanding its role in cellular signaling networks, and elucidating its functions in normal physiology and disease states. Studies using model organisms and cell culture systems are crucial for uncovering the molecular mechanisms underlying STK35L1's actions.

See Also

• Serine/threonine-specific protein kinases
• Cell cycle
• Apoptosis
• Autophagy