Serine/threonine-specific protein kinase

Serine/threonine-specific protein kinase (also known as a Ser/Thr kinase) is a type of enzyme that works to modify other proteins by chemically adding phosphate groups to them (a process known as phosphorylation). These kinases are part of the larger family of protein kinases, which also includes tyrosine kinases.

Function

Ser/Thr kinases are crucial for the regulation of cell cycles, apoptosis, and cell differentiation. They achieve this by phosphorylating serine or threonine residues on target proteins. This phosphorylation can either activate or deactivate the target protein, depending on its function and the specific site of phosphorylation.

Structure

Like all protein kinases, Ser/Thr kinases have a similar structure. They consist of two main domains: the catalytic domain, which is responsible for the kinase activity, and the regulatory domain, which controls the activity of the catalytic domain.

Examples

There are many examples of Ser/Thr kinases, including PKA, PKC, and PKB (also known as Akt). These kinases play key roles in many cellular processes and signaling pathways.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities in the function of Ser/Thr kinases can lead to a variety of diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and neurodegenerative diseases. As such, these kinases are often targets for therapeutic intervention.

See also

• Protein kinase
• Tyrosine kinase
• Phosphorylation
• Cell cycle
• Apoptosis
• Cell differentiation

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