Intracellular kinases play a pivotal role in the regulation of apoptosis, functioning as key mediators that transduce signals leading to programmed cell death. These enzymes are integral to both the intrinsic and extrinsic apoptosis pathways, responding to cellular stress, damage, and external signals by phosphorylating specific substrates that promote or inhibit apoptosis.
Key among these kinases are the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), which include three major pathways: the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and the p38 MAP kinase. Each of these pathways plays a distinct role in apoptosis. For instance, JNK and p38 are generally associated with stress-induced apoptosis. They are activated by a variety of stress signals, including UV radiation, heat shock, and cytokines. Upon activation, JNK and p38 MAPK can phosphorylate the Bcl-2 family proteins, promoting the pro-apoptotic functions of Bax and inhibiting the anti-apoptotic functions of Bcl-2. Conversely, the ERK pathway typically promotes cell survival and proliferation, but under certain conditions, it can also induce apoptosis, illustrating the complex, context-dependent roles these kinases play.
Another crucial kinase in the apoptosis pathway is the protein kinase B (Akt), which is central to the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, a major cell survival pathway that inhibits apoptosis by several mechanisms. Akt can phosphorylate and inactivate components of the apoptotic machinery, including Bad (a pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 family member) and caspase-9. Akt's activity is modulated by growth factors and other extracellular signals, and it plays a significant role in cancer cell survival and resistance to chemotherapy.
The involvement of these kinases in apoptosis highlights the intricate network of signaling pathways that govern cell fate. The balance of kinase activity is crucial for maintaining cellular homeostasis, and dysregulation can lead to diseases such as cancer, where apoptotic pathways are often inhibited. Therapeutic targeting of these kinases has become a significant focus in the development of cancer treatments, aiming to re-activate apoptotic pathways to eliminate cancer cells selectively.
Figure 1 Mechanism of apoptosis and alteration of its pathways in cancer. (Das, 2021)
MAP2K1, also known as MEK1 (Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Kinase 1), is a crucial enzyme in the MAPK/ERK pathway, which plays a significant role in transducing signals from the cell surface to the nucleus. MAP2K1 specifically functions as a dual-specificity kinase, meaning it can phosphorylate both serine/threonine and tyrosine residues. It is directly responsible for activating ERK1 and ERK2 (extracellular signal-regulated kinases) through phosphorylation, which then go on to activate various transcription factors involved in the regulation of cell division, differentiation, and survival. The MAPK/ERK pathway, with MAP2K1 at its core, is activated by a range of growth factors, cytokines, and oncogenes, making it a pivotal mediator of cellular responses to external stimuli. Due to its central role in cell signaling, MAP2K1 is tightly regulated, and its dysregulation is implicated in numerous cancers and other diseases. For instance, mutations or overactivation of MAP2K1 can lead to uncontrolled cell proliferation and resistance to apoptosis, contributing to the development and progression of malignancies. Given its critical involvement in signaling pathways that control cell growth and survival, MAP2K1 has become a target for cancer therapy. Several inhibitors of MAP2K1 have been developed and are in clinical use or undergoing trials, aiming to block the aberrant signaling caused by mutations in the MAPK pathway that often occur in cancer cells. These inhibitors represent a targeted therapeutic approach, seeking to curb tumor growth by specifically disrupting the signaling pathways that drive malignancy. Furthermore, research into MAP2K1 also extends to its role in other diseases characterized by abnormal cell signaling, including developmental disorders and neurodegenerative diseases, where altered MAP2K1 activity can impact cellular function and viability.
RPS6KB1, also known as Ribosomal Protein S6 Kinase Beta-1 or p70S6 Kinase, is an enzyme that plays a critical role in the protein synthesis machinery of the cell. It functions downstream of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway, a major signaling pathway that responds to growth factors, nutrients, and insulin. Activation of RPS6KB1 leads to the phosphorylation of the ribosomal protein S6, which enhances the translation of mRNAs encoding components of the translational apparatus, thereby increasing protein synthesis. The activation of RPS6KB1 is crucial for cell growth and proliferation, as it enhances the cell's capacity to synthesize proteins. This kinase is particularly important in the context of cellular responses to mitogenic and nutritional signals, making it a key player in the regulation of cell size and metabolism. Dysregulation of RPS6KB1 activity has been implicated in various diseases, notably cancer. Overactivation of RPS6KB1, often due to mutations or alterations in upstream signaling components like mTOR, can lead to uncontrolled cell proliferation and survival, contributing to oncogenesis and tumor progression. In addition to its role in cancer, RPS6KB1 has also been studied for its involvement in metabolic disorders such as obesity and type 2 diabetes, where its signaling pathway is often aberrantly activated. Given its central role in cell growth and protein synthesis, RPS6KB1 is a potential target for therapeutic intervention in these conditions. Inhibitors targeting RPS6KB1 or its upstream activators (like mTOR inhibitors) are being developed and evaluated for their efficacy in treating hyperproliferative diseases and metabolic disorders.
RPS6KA1, commonly known as Ribosomal Protein S6 Kinase Alpha-1 or p90 Ribosomal S6 Kinase (RSK1), is part of the RSK family, a group of serine/threonine kinases that operate as downstream effectors of the ERK/MAPK (extracellular signal-regulated kinase/mitogen-activated protein kinase) signaling pathway. This kinase plays a critical role in mediating cellular responses to growth factor signaling, thereby influencing a variety of cellular processes, including growth, survival, and proliferation. Upon activation by ERK1/2, RPS6KA1 phosphorylates a variety of substrates, including transcription factors, other kinases, and structural proteins. This broad range of targets allows RPS6KA1 to impact several critical cellular functions. For example, it phosphorylates the transcription factor CREB (cAMP response element-binding protein), enhancing its ability to regulate gene expression involved in cell survival and growth. Additionally, RPS6KA1 can phosphorylate the protein BAD, a pro-apoptotic factor, thus promoting cell survival by inhibiting apoptosis. The versatility of RPS6KA1 in regulating both growth and survival pathways makes it a key player in the development and progression of certain cancers. Its overactivation can contribute to oncogenesis by promoting unchecked cell proliferation and resistance to programmed cell death. This has positioned RPS6KA1 as a potential target for cancer therapy, with efforts focused on developing inhibitors that can specifically block its kinase activity.
Biomarker | Alternative Names | Gene ID | UniProt ID | Roles |
AKT1 | AKT Serine/Threonine Kinase 1; V-Akt Murine Thymoma Viral Oncogene Homolog 1; Protein Kinase B Alpha; Proto-Oncogene C-Akt; RAC-PK-Alpha; EC 2.7.11.1; PKB Alpha; PKB; RAC; V-Akt Murine Thymoma Viral Oncogene-Like Protein 1; RAC-Alpha Serine/Threonine-Protein Kinase | 207 | B0LPE5 | The serine-threonine protein kinase encoded by the AKT1 gene is catalytically inactive in serum-starved primary and immortalized fibroblasts. AKT1 and the related AKT2 are activated by platelet-derived growth factor. The activation is rapid and specific, and it is abrogated by mutations in the pleckstrin homology domain of AKT1. It was shown that the activation occurs through phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase. In the developing nervous system AKT is a critical mediator of growth factor-induced neuronal survival. Survival factors can suppress apoptosis in a transcription-independent manner by activating the serine/threonine kinase AKT1, which then phosphorylates and inactivates components of the apoptotic machinery. Mutations in this gene have been associated with the Proteus syndrome. Multiple alternatively spliced transcript variants have been found for this gene. |
AKT2 | AKT Serine/Threonine Kinase 2; V-Akt Murine Thymoma Viral Oncogene Homolog 2; Protein Kinase B Beta; Protein Kinase Akt-2; RAC-PK-Beta; EC 2.7.11.1; PKB Beta; Putative V-Akt Murine Thymoma Viral Oncoprotein 2; RAC-Beta Serine/Threonine-Protein Kinase | 208 | B4DG79 | This gene is a putative oncogene encoding a protein belonging to a subfamily of serine/threonine kinases containing SH2-like (Src homology 2-like) domains. The gene was shown to be amplified and overexpressed in 2 of 8 ovarian carcinoma cell lines and 2 of 15 primary ovarian tumors. Overexpression contributes to the malignant phenotype of a subset of human ductal pancreatic cancers. The encoded protein is a general protein kinase capable of phophorylating several known proteins. |
AKT3 | AKT Serine/Threonine Kinase 3; RAC-PK-Gamma; EC 2.7.11.1; PKB Gamma; STK-2; PKBG; V-Akt Murine Thymoma Viral Oncogene Homolog 3 (Protein Kinase B, Gamma); V-Akt Murine Thymoma Viral Oncogene Homolog 3; RAC-Gamma Serine/Threonine Protein Kinase; RAC-Gamma Serine/Threonine-Protein Kinase | 10000 | Q9Y243 | The protein encoded by this gene is a member of the AKT, also called PKB, serine/threonine protein kinase family. AKT kinases are known to be regulators of cell signaling in response to insulin and growth factors. They are involved in a wide variety of biological processes including cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, tumorigenesis, as well as glycogen synthesis and glucose uptake. This kinase has been shown to be stimulated by platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), insulin, and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1). Alternatively splice transcript variants encoding distinct isoforms have been described. |
CAMKK1 | Calcium/Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase Kinase 1, Alpha; Calcium/Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase Kinase Alpha; CaM-Kinase Kinase Alpha; CaM-Kinase IV Kinase; CaM-Kinase Kinase 1; CaM-KK Alpha; CaM-KK 1; CaMKK 1; CAMKKA; CAMKK Alpha Protein; EC 2.7.11.17; CaMKK Alpha; EC 2.7.11 | 84254 | Q8N5S9 | The product of this gene belongs to the Serine/Threonine protein kinase family, and to the Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase subfamily. This protein plays a role in the calcium/calmodulin-dependent (CaM) kinase cascade. Three transcript variants encoding two distinct isoforms have been identified for this gene. |
CAMKK2 | Calcium/Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase Kinase 2, Beta; CaM-Kinase Kinase Beta; CaM-Kinase Kinase 2; CaM-KK Beta; CaM-KK 2; CAMKKB; Calcium/Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase Kinase Beta; Calcium/Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase Beta; CAMKK Beta Protein; EC 2.7.11.17; CaMKK Beta; EC 2.7.11; KIAA0787; CaMKK 2; CAMKK | 10645 | Q96RR4 | The product of this gene belongs to the Serine/Threonine protein kinase family, and to the Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase subfamily. The major isoform of this gene plays a role in the calcium/calmodulin-dependent (CaM) kinase cascade by phosphorylating the downstream kinases CaMK1 and CaMK4. Protein products of this gene also phosphorylate AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). This gene has its strongest expression in the brain and influences signalling cascades involved with learning and memory, neuronal differentiation and migration, neurite outgrowth, and synapse formation. Alternative splicing results in multiple transcript variants encoding distinct isoforms. The identified isoforms differ in their ability to undergo autophosphorylation and to phosphorylate downstream kinases. |
CROT | CROT; Human CROT | 54677 | Q9UKG9 | |
ERKs | MAPK1; p38; p40; p41; ERK2; ERT1; ERK-2; MAPK2; PRKM1; PRKM2; P42MAPK; p41mapk; p42-MAPK | 5594 | P28482 | In molecular biology, extracellular signal–regulated kinases (ERKs) or classical MAP kinases are widely expressed protein kinase intracellular signalling molecules that are involved in functions including the regulation of meiosis, mitosis, and postmitotic functions in differentiated cells. Many different stimuli, including growth factors, cytokines, virus infection, ligands for heterotrimeric G protein-coupled receptors, transforming agents, and carcinogens, activate the ERK pathway. |
JAK1 | JTK3; AIIDE; JAK1A; JAK1B | 3716 | P23458 | This gene encodes a membrane protein that is a member of a class of protein-tyrosine kinases (PTK) characterized by the presence of a second phosphotransferase-related domain immediately N-terminal to the PTK domain. The encoded kinase phosphorylates STAT proteins (signal transducers and activators of transcription) and plays a key role in interferon-alpha/beta, interferon-gamma, and cytokine signal transduction. This gene plays a crucial role in effecting the expression of genes that mediate inflammation, epithelial remodeling, and metastatic cancer progression. This gene is a key component of the interleukin-6 (IL-6)/JAK1/STAT3 immune and inflammation response and is a therapeutic target for alleviating cytokine storms. The kinase activity of this gene is directly inhibited by the suppressor of cytokine signalling 1 (SOCS1) protein. Alternative splicing results in multiple transcript variants. |
JNK1 | JNK; MAPK8; PRKM8; SAPK1; JNK-46; JNK1A2; SAPK1c; JNK21B1/2 | 5599 | P45983 | The protein encoded by this gene is a member of the MAP kinase family. MAP kinases act as an integration point for multiple biochemical signals, and are involved in a wide variety of cellular processes such as proliferation, differentiation, transcription regulation and development. This kinase is activated by various cell stimuli, and targets specific transcription factors, and thus mediates immediate-early gene expression in response to cell stimuli. The activation of this kinase by tumor-necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) is found to be required for TNF-alpha induced apoptosis. This kinase is also involved in UV radiation induced apoptosis, which is thought to be related to cytochrom c-mediated cell death pathway. Studies of the mouse counterpart of this gene suggested that this kinase play a key role in T cell proliferation, apoptosis and differentiation. Several alternatively spliced transcript variants encoding distinct isoforms have been reported. |
JNK2 | MAPK9; SAPK; p54a; JNK2A; JNK2B; PRKM9; JNK-55; SAPK1a; JNK2BETA; p54aSAPK; JNK2ALPHA | 5601 | P45984 | Mitogen-activated protein kinase 9 (MAPK9), also well known as c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK2), is a member of MAP kinase subfamily belonging to the protein kinase superfamily. MAPK9 responds to activation by environmental stress and pro-inflammatory cytokines by phosphorylating a number of transcription factors, such as c-Jun and ATF2. The crystal structure of human JNK2 complexed with an indazole inhibitor by applying a high-throughput protein engineering and surface-site mutagenesis approach. A novel conformation of the activation loop is observed, which is not compatible with its phosphorylation by upstream kinases. This activation inhibitory conformation of JNK2 is stabilized by the MAP kinase insert that interacts with the activation loop in an induced-fit manner. It suggest that the MAP kinase insert of JNK2 plays a role in the regulation of JNK2 activation, possibly by interacting with intracellular binding partners. JNK2 deficiency leads to reduced c-Jun degradation, thereby augmenting c-Jun levels and cellular proliferation, and suggests that JNK2 is a negative regulator of cellular proliferation in multiple cell types. JNK2 prevents replicative stress by coordinating cell cycle progression and DNA damage repair mechanisms. JNK2 blocks the ubiquitination of tumor suppressor p53, and thus increases the stability of p53 in nonstressed cells. JNK2 negatively regulates antigen-specific CD8+ T cell expansion and effector function, and thus selectively blocking JNK2 in CD8+ T cells may potentially enhance anti-tumor immune response. Lack of JNK2 expression was associated with higher tumor aneuploidy and reduced DNA damage response. Additionally,the JNK2 protein could be a novel therapeutic target in dry eye disease, and may provide a novel target for prevention of vascular disease and atherosclerosis. |
LMTK2 | BREK; KPI2; LMR2; cprk; KPI-2; hBREK; AATYK2; PPP1R100 | 22853 | Q8IWU2 | The protein encoded by this gene belongs to the protein kinase superfamily and the protein tyrosine kinase family. It contains N-terminal transmembrane helices and a long C-terminal cytoplasmic tail with serine/threonine/tyrosine kinase activity. This protein interacts with several other proteins, such as Inhibitor-2 (Inh2), protein phosphatase-1 (PP1C), p35, and myosin VI. It phosporylates other proteins, and is itself also phosporylated when interacting with cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (cdk5)/p35 complex. This protein involves in nerve growth factor (NGF)-TrkA signalling, and also plays a critical role in endosomal membrane trafficking. Mouse studies suggested an essential role of this protein in spermatogenesis. |
MAP2K1 | Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Kinase 1; ERK Activator Kinase 1; MAPK/ERK Kinase 1; EC 2.7.12.2; MAPKK 1; PRKMK1; MEK 1; MEK1 | 5604 | Q02750 | The protein encoded by this gene is a member of the dual specificity protein kinase family, which acts as a mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase kinase. MAP kinases, also known as extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERKs), act as an integration point for multiple biochemical signals. This protein kinase lies upstream of MAP kinases and stimulates the enzymatic activity of MAP kinases upon wide variety of extra- and intracellular signals. As an essential component of MAP kinase signal transduction pathway, this kinase is involved in many cellular processes such as proliferation, differentiation, transcription regulation and development. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008] |
MAP2K2 | Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Kinase 2; ERK Activator Kinase 2; MAP Kinase Kinase 2; MAPK/ERK Kinase 2; EC 2.7.12.2; PRKMK2; MEK2; MKK2 | 5605 | P36507 | The protein encoded by this gene is a dual specificity protein kinase that belongs to the MAP kinase kinase family. This kinase is known to play a critical role in mitogen growth factor signal transduction. It phosphorylates and thus activates MAPK1/ERK2 and MAPK2/ERK3. The activation of this kinase itself is dependent on the Ser/Thr phosphorylation by MAP kinase kinase kinases. Mutations in this gene cause cardiofaciocutaneous syndrome (CFC syndrome), a disease characterized by heart defects, cognitive disability, and distinctive facial features similar to those found in Noonan syndrome. The inhibition or degradation of this kinase is also found to be involved in the pathogenesis of Yersinia and anthrax. A pseudogene, which is located on chromosome 7, has been identified for this gene. |
MAP2K3 | Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Kinase 3; MAP Kinase Kinase 3; MAPK/ERK Kinase 3; Stress-Activated Protein Kinase Kinase 2; SAPK Kinase 2; EC 2.7.12.2; MAPKK 3; SAPKK-2; PRKMK3 | 5606 | P46734 | The protein encoded by this gene is a dual specificity protein kinase that belongs to the MAP kinase kinase family. This kinase is activated by mitogenic and environmental stress, and participates in the MAP kinase-mediated signaling cascade. It phosphorylates and thus activates MAPK14/p38-MAPK. This kinase can be activated by insulin, and is necessary for the expression of glucose transporter. Expression of RAS oncogene is found to result in the accumulation of the active form of this kinase, which thus leads to the constitutive activation of MAPK14, and confers oncogenic transformation of primary cells. The inhibition of this kinase is involved in the pathogenesis of Yersina pseudotuberculosis. Multiple alternatively spliced transcript variants that encode distinct isoforms have been reported for this gene. |
MAP2K5 | Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Kinase 5; MAP Kinase Kinase 5; MAPK/ERK Kinase 5; EC 2.7.12.2; MAPKK 5; PRKMK5; MEK 5 | 5607 | Q13163 | The protein encoded by this gene is a dual specificity protein kinase that belongs to the MAP kinase kinase family. This kinase specifically interacts with and activates MAPK7/ERK5. This kinase itself can be phosphorylated and activated by MAP3K3/MEKK3, as well as by atypical protein kinase C isoforms (aPKCs). The signal cascade mediated by this kinase is involved in growth factor stimulated cell proliferation and muscle cell differentiation. Three alternatively spliced transcript variants of this gene encoding distinct isoforms have been described. |
MAP3K10 | MST; MLK2; MEKK10 | 4294 | Q02779 | The protein encoded by this gene is a member of the serine/threonine kinase family. This kinase has been shown to activate MAPK8/JNK and MKK4/SEK1, and this kinase itself can be phoshorylated, and thus activated by JNK kinases. This kinase functions preferentially on the JNK signaling pathway, and is reported to be involved in nerve growth factor (NGF) induced neuronal apoptosis. |
MAP3K5 | Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Kinase Kinase 5; Apoptosis Signal-Regulating Kinase 1; MAPK/ERK Kinase Kinase 5; MEK Kinase 5; EC 2.7.11.25; MAPKKK5; MEKK 5 | 4217 | Q99683 | Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling cascades include MAPK or extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), MAPK kinase (MKK or MEK), and MAPK kinase kinase (MAPKKK or MEKK). MAPKK kinase/MEKK phosphorylates and activates its downstream protein kinase, MAPK kinase/MEK, which in turn activates MAPK. The kinases of these signaling cascades are highly conserved, and homologs exist in yeast, Drosophila, and mammalian cells. MAPKKK5 contains 1,374 amino acids with all 11 kinase subdomains. Northern blot analysis shows that MAPKKK5 transcript is abundantly expressed in human heart and pancreas. The MAPKKK5 protein phosphorylates and activates MKK4 (aliases SERK1, MAPKK4) in vitro, and activates c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK)/stress-activated protein kinase (SAPK) during transient expression in COS and 293 cells; MAPKKK5 does not activate MAPK/ERK. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008] |
MAPK10 | JNK3; JNK3A; PRKM10; SAPK1b; p493F12; p54bSAPK | 5602 | P53779 | The protein encoded by this gene is a member of the MAP kinase family. MAP kinases act as integration points for multiple biochemical signals, and thus are involved in a wide variety of cellular processes, such as proliferation, differentiation, transcription regulation and development. This kinase is specifically expressed in a subset of neurons in the nervous system, and is activated by threonine and tyrosine phosphorylation. Targeted deletion of this gene in mice suggests that it may have a role in stress-induced neuronal apoptosis. Alternatively spliced transcript variants encoding different isoforms have been described for this gene. A recent study provided evidence for translational readthrough in this gene, and expression of an additional C-terminally extended isoform via the use of an alternative in-frame translation termination codon. |
MAPK11 | Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 11; Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase P38 Beta; MAP Kinase P38 Beta; MAP Kinase 11; EC 2.7.11.24;6 PRKM11; SAPK2B; SAPK2; P38-2; P38B | 5600 | Q15759 | This gene encodes a member of a family of protein kinases that are involved in the integration of biochemical signals for a wide variety of cellular processes, including cell proliferation, differentiation, transcriptional regulation, and development. The encoded protein can be activated by proinflammatory cytokines and environmental stresses through phosphorylation by mitogen activated protein kinase kinases (MKKs). Alternative splicing results in multiple transcript variants. |
MAPK12 | ERK3; ERK6; ERK-6; SAPK3; PRKM12; SAPK-3; MAPK 12; P38GAMMA; mitogen-activated protein kinase 12; MAP kinase 12; MAP kinase p38 gamma; extracellular signal-regulated kinase 6; mitogen-activated protein kinase 3; mitogen-activated protein kinase p38 gamma; stress-activated protein kinase 3 | 6300 | P53778 | Activation of members of the mitogen-activated protein kinase family is a major mechanism for transduction of extracellular signals. Stress-activated protein kinases are one subclass of MAP kinases. Diseases associated with MAPK12 include Breast Cancer and Noonan Syndrome 1. Among its related pathways are Mitochondrial Gene Expression and RANK Signaling in Osteoclasts. |
MAPK13 | SAPK4; PRKM13; MAPK 13; MAPK-13; p38delta; mitogen-activated protein kinase 13; MAP kinase 13; MAP kinase p38 delta; mitogen-activated protein kinase p38 delta; stress-activated protein kinase 4 | 5603 | O15264 | This gene encodes a member of the mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase family. MAP kinases act as an integration point for multiple biochemical signals, and are involved in a wide variety of cellular processes such as proliferation, differentiation, transcription regulation and development. Among its related pathways are RANK Signaling in Osteoclasts and Interferon Pathway. |
MAPK3 | Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 3; Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase 1; Microtubule-Associated Protein 2 Kinase; Insulin-Stimulated MAP2 Kinase; MAP Kinase Isoform P44; EC 2.7.11.24; P44-ERK1; P44-MAPK; PRKM3; ERK-1; ERK1 | 5595 | P27361 | The protein encoded by this gene is a member of the MAP kinase family. MAP kinases, also known as extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERKs), act in a signaling cascade that regulates various cellular processes such as proliferation, differentiation, and cell cycle progression in response to a variety of extracellular signals. This kinase is activated by upstream kinases, resulting in its translocation to the nucleus where it phosphorylates nuclear targets. Alternatively spliced transcript variants encoding different protein isoforms have been described. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008] |
MELK | Maternal Embryonic Leucine Zipper Kinase; Tyrosine-Protein Kinase MELK; Protein Kinase PK38; Protein Kinase Eg3; PEg3 Kinase; EC 2.7.11.1 | 9833 | Q14680 | MELK (Maternal Embryonic Leucine Zipper Kinase) is a Protein Coding gene. Diseases associated with MELK include Uterine Corpus Endometrial Carcinoma. Among its related pathways are Neuroscience. Gene Ontology (GO) annotations related to this gene include calcium ion binding and protein kinase activity. An important paralog of this gene is PRKAA2. |
MLST8 | GBL; LST8; POP3; WAT1; GbetaL | 64223 | Q9BVC4 | |
MSP | Merozoite surface protein; MSP | Merozoite surface proteins are both integral and peripherial membrane protein molecules found on the surface of a merozoite. A merozoite is an early lifecycle stage of a protozoan. Merozoite surface proteins, or MSPs, are useful in researching malaria, a disease caused by protozoans. The malaria parasite, in its asexual, blood invading stage called the merozoite stage, infects red blood cells. The MSP1 complex of surface proteins likely mediates the first interactions of the parasite with red blood cells. | ||
MST1 | MSP; HGFL; NF15S2; D3F15S2; DNF15S2 | 4485 | P26927 | The protein encoded by this gene contains four kringle domains and a serine protease domain, similar to that found in hepatic growth factor. Despite the presence of the serine protease domain, the encoded protein may not have any proteolytic activity. The receptor for this protein is RON tyrosine kinase, which upon activation stimulates ciliary motility of ciliated epithelial lung cells. This protein is secreted and cleaved to form an alpha chain and a beta chain bridged by disulfide bonds. |
MST2 | KRS1;STK3 | 6788 | Q13188 | This gene encodes a serine/threonine protein kinase activated by proapoptotic molecules indicating the encoded protein functions as a growth suppressor. Cleavage of the protein product by caspase removes the inhibitory C-terminal portion. The N-terminal portion is transported to the nucleus where it homodimerizes to form the active kinase which promotes the condensation of chromatin during apoptosis. Multiple transcript variants encoding different isoforms have been found for this gene. |
PDPK1 | 3-Phosphoinositide Dependent Protein Kinase 1; EC 2.7.11.1; PDK1; 3-Phosphoinositide-Dependent Protein Kinase 2 Pseudogene; 3-Phosphoinositide-Dependent Protein Kinase 1; PkB Kinase Like Gene 1; PkB Kinase | 5170 | O15530 | PDPK1 is a master kinase, which is crucial for the activation of AKT/PKB and many other AGC kinases including PKC, S6K, SGK. An important role for PDPK1 is in the signalling pathways activated by several growth factors and hormones including insulin signaling. |
PIK3C2B | PIK3C2B; phosphoinositide-3-kinase, class 2, beta polypeptide; phosphatidylinositol-4-phosphate 3-kinase C2 domain-containing subunit beta; C2 PI3K; PI3K C2beta; C2 PI3K; Phosphoinositide 3 Kinase C2 beta; PI3K C2beta; PtdIns 3 kinase C2 beta; PI3K-C2beta; PI3K-C2-beta; OTTHUMP00000034333; PTDINS-3-kinase C2 beta; ptdIns-3-kinase C2 subunit beta; phosphoinositide 3-kinase-C2-beta; phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase C2 domain-conta; C2-PI3K; | 5287 | O00750 | The protein encoded by this gene belongs to the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) family. PI3-kinases play roles in signaling pathways involved in cell proliferation, oncogenic transformation, cell survival, cell migration, and intracellular protein trafficking. This protein contains a lipid kinase catalytic domain as well as a C-terminal C2 domain, a characteristic of class II PI3-kinases. C2 domains act as calcium-dependent phospholipid binding motifs that mediate translocation of proteins to membranes, and may also mediate protein-protein interactions. The PI3-kinase activity of this protein is sensitive to low nanomolar levels of the inhibitor wortmanin. The C2 domain of this protein was shown to bind phospholipids but not Ca2+, which suggests that this enzyme may function in a calcium-independent manner. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008] |
PIK3CB | Phosphatidylinositol-4,5-Bisphosphate 3-Kinase Catalytic Subunit Beta; Phosphatidylinositol 4,5-Bisphosphate 3-Kinase 110 KDa Catalytic Subunit Beta; Phosphoinositide-3-Kinase, Catalytic, Beta Polypeptide; PtdIns-3-Kinase Subunit P110-Beta; PtdIns-3-Kinase Subunit Beta; PI3-Kinase Subunit Beta; EC 2.7.1.153; PI3K-Beta; P110BETA | 5291 | P42338 | This gene encodes an isoform of the catalytic subunit of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K). These kinases are important in signaling pathways involving receptors on the outer membrane of eukaryotic cells and are named for their catalytic subunit. The encoded protein is the catalytic subunit for PI3Kbeta (PI3KB). PI3KB has been shown to be part of the activation pathway in neutrophils which have bound immune complexes at sites of injury or infection. Alternative splicing results in multiple transcript variants. [provided by RefSeq, Dec 2011] |
PIK3CD | APDS; PI3K; IMD14; p110D; IMD14A; IMD14B; ROCHIS; P110DELTA | 5293 | O00329 | Phosphoinositide 3-kinases (PI3Ks) phosphorylate inositol lipids and are involved in the immune response. The protein encoded by this gene is a class I PI3K found primarily in leukocytes. Like other class I PI3Ks (p110-alpha p110-beta, and p110-gamma), the encoded protein binds p85 adapter proteins and GTP-bound RAS. However, unlike the other class I PI3Ks, this protein phosphorylates itself, not p85 protein. |
PIK3R1 | Phosphoinositide-3-Kinase Regulatory Subunit 1; Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase 85 KDa Regulatory Subunit Alpha; Phosphoinositide-3-Kinase, Regulatory Subunit 1 (Alpha); Phosphoinositide-3-Kinase Regulatory Subunit Alpha; PtdIns-3-Kinase Regulatory Subunit Alpha; PI3K Regulatory Subunit Alpha; PI3-Kinase Subunit P85-Alpha; GRB1; Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase, Regulatory Subunit, Polypeptide 1 (P85 Alpha) | 5295 | P27986 | Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase phosphorylates the inositol ring of phosphatidylinositol at the 3-prime position. The enzyme comprises a 110 kD catalytic subunit and a regulatory subunit of either 85, 55, or 50 kD. This gene encodes the 85 kD regulatory subunit. Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase plays an important role in the metabolic actions of insulin, and a mutation in this gene has been associated with insulin resistance. Alternative splicing of this gene results in four transcript variants encoding different isoforms. [provided by RefSeq, Jun 2011] |
PIK3R2 | PI3-kinase regulatory subunit beta; PI3K regulatory subunit beta; PtdIns-3-kinase regulatory subunit beta; PI3-kinase subunit p85-beta; PtdIns-3-kinase regulatory subunit p85-beta; p85; MPPH; P85B; MPPH1; p85-BETA | 282308 | P23726 | Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) is a lipid kinase that phosphorylates phosphatidylinositol and similar compounds, creating second messengers important in growth signaling pathways. PI3K functions as a heterodimer of a regulatory and a catalytic subunit. The protein encoded by this gene is a regulatory component of PI3K. Three transcript variants, one protein coding and the other two non-protein coding, have been found for this gene. |
PIK3R4 | p150; VPS15 | 30849 | Q99570 | |
PIM1 | Pim-1 Proto-Oncogene, Serine/Threonine Kinase; EC 2.7.11.1; Proto-Oncogene Serine/Threonine-Protein Kinase Pim-1; Pim-1 Oncogene (Proviral Integration Site 1); Serine/Threonine-Protein Kinase Pim-1; Pim-1 Kinase 44 KDa Isoform; Pim-1 Oncogene; Oncogene PIM1; PIM | 5292 | P11309 | The protein encoded by this gene belongs to the Ser/Thr protein kinase family, and PIM subfamily. This gene is expressed primarily in B-lymphoid and myeloid cell lines, and is overexpressed in hematopoietic malignancies and in prostate cancer. It plays a role in signal transduction in blood cells, contributing to both cell proliferation and survival, and thus provides a selective advantage in tumorigenesis. Both the human and orthologous mouse genes have been reported to encode two isoforms (with preferential cellular localization) resulting from the use of alternative in-frame translation initiation codons, the upstream non-AUG (CUG) and downstream AUG codons (PMIDs:16186805, 1825810).[provided by RefSeq, Aug 2011] |
PINK1 | PTEN Induced Putative Kinase 1; PTEN-Induced Putative Kinase Protein 1; BRPK; Serine/Threonine-Protein Kinase PINK1, Mitochondrial; Parkinson Disease (Autosomal Recessive) 6; Protein Kinase BRPK; EC 2.7.11.1; PARK6 | 65018 | Q9BXM7 | This gene encodes a serine/threonine protein kinase that localizes to mitochondria. It is thought to protect cells from stress-induced mitochondrial dysfunction. Mutations in this gene cause one form of autosomal recessive early-onset Parkinson disease. |
PRKACA | PKACA; PPNAD4 | 5566 | P17612 | This enzyme is responsible for phosphorylating other proteins and substrates, changing their activity. Protein kinase A catalytic subunit (PKA Cα) is a member of the AGC kinase family (protein kinases A, G, and C), and contributes to the control of cellular processes that include glucose metabolism, cell division, and contextual memory. |
RICTOR | RPTOR Independent Companion Of MTOR Complex 2; Rapamycin-Insensitive Companion Of MTOR; AVO3 Homolog; Pianissimo; HAVO3; RPTOR Independent Companion Of MTOR, Complex 2 | 253260 | Q6R327 | RICTOR and MTOR (FRAP1; MIM 601231) are components of a protein complex that integrates nutrient- and growth factor-derived signals to regulate cell growth. |
ROCK2 | Rho Associated Coiled-Coil Containing Protein Kinase 2; Rho-Associated, Coiled-Coil-Containing Protein Kinase II; P164 ROCK-2; EC 2.7.11.1; ROCK-II; Rho-Associated, Coiled-Coil-Containing Protein Kinase 2 | 9475 | O75116 | The protein encoded by this gene is a serine/threonine kinase that regulates cytokinesis, smooth muscle contraction, the formation of actin stress fibers and focal adhesions, and the activation of the c-fos serum response element. This protein, which is an isozyme of ROCK1 is a target for the small GTPase Rho. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008] |
RORC | RORC; Retinoic Acid-Binding Receptor Gamma; NR1F3; RAR-Related Orphan Nuclear Receptor Variant 2; Retinoid-Related Orphan Receptor-Gamma; Retinoid-Related Orphan Receptor Gamma; Nuclear Receptor ROR-Gamma; Nuclear Receptor RZR-Gamma; TOR; RZR-GAMMA | 6097 | P51449 | Nuclear receptor that binds DNA as a monomer to ROR response elements (RORE) containing a single core motif half-site 5-AGGTCA-3 preceded by a short A-T-rich sequence. Key regulator of cellular differentiation, immunity, peripheral circadian rhythm as well as lipid, steroid, xenobiotics and glucose metabolism. Considered to have intrinsic transcriptional activity, have some natural ligands like oxysterols that act as agonists (25-hydroxycholesterol) or inverse agonists (7-oxygenated sterols), enhancing or repressing the transcriptional activity, respectively. Recruits distinct combinations of cofactors to target gene regulatory regions to modulate their transcriptional expression, depending on the tissue, time and promoter contexts. Regulates the circadian expression of clock genes such as CRY1, ARNTL/BMAL1 and NR1D1 in peripheral tissues and in a tissue-selective manner. Competes with NR1D1 for binding to their shared DNA response element on some clock genes such as ARNTL/BMAL1, CRY1 and NR1D1 itself, resulting in NR1D1-mediated repression or RORC-mediated activation of the expression, leading to the circadian pattern of clock genes expression. Therefore influences the period length and stability of the clock. Involved in the regulation of the rhythmic expression of genes involved in glucose and lipid metabolism, including PLIN2 and AVPR1A. Negative regulator of adipocyte differentiation through the regulation of early phase genes expression, such as MMP3. Controls adipogenesis as well as adipocyte size and modulates insulin sensitivity in obesity. In liver, has specific and redundant functions with RORA as positive or negative modulator of expression of genes encoding phase I and Phase II proteins involved in the metabolism of lipids, steroids and xenobiotics, such as SULT1E1. Also plays also a role in the regulation of hepatocyte glucose metabolism through the regulation of G6PC and PCK1. Regulates the rhythmic expression of PROX1 and promotes its nuclear localization (By similarity). |
RPS6KA1 | RPS6KA1; MAPKAPK1A; RSK1; Ribosomal protein S6 kinase alpha-1; S6K-alpha-1; 90 kDa ribosomal protein S6 kinase 1; p90-RSK 1; p90RSK1; p90S6K; MAP kinase-activated protein kinase 1a; MAPK-activated protein kinase 1a; MAPKAP kinase 1a; MAPKAP | 6195 | Q15418 | Serine/threonine kinases may play a role in mediating growth factor and stress-induced activation of the transcription factor CREB. |
RPS6KA2 | Ribosomal Protein S6 Kinase A2; MAP Kinase-Activated Protein Kinase 1c; MAPK-Activated Protein Kinase 1c; Ribosomal S6 Kinase 3; EC 2.7.11.1; MAPKAPK1C; Pp90RSK3; P90RSK2; RSK3; Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase-Activated Protein Kinase 1C; Ribosomal Protein S6 Kinase, 90kDa, Polypeptide 2; Ribosomal Protein S6 Kinase, 90kD, Polypeptide 2; 90 KDa Ribosomal Protein S6 Kinase 2; Ribosomal Protein S6 Kinase Alpha-2 | 6196 | Q15349 | This gene encodes a member of the RSK (ribosomal S6 kinase) family of serine/threonine kinases. This kinase contains two non-identical kinase catalytic domains and phosphorylates various substrates, including members of the mitogen-activated kinase (MAPK) signalling pathway. The activity of this protein has been implicated in controlling cell growth and differentiation. Alternative splice variants, encoding different isoforms, have been characterized. |
RPS6KA3 | Ribosomal Protein S6 Kinase A3; MAP Kinase-Activated Protein Kinase 1b; Insulin-Stimulated Protein Kinase 1; MAPK-Activated Protein Kinase 1b; Ribosomal S6 Kinase 2; MAPKAP Kinase 1b; S6K-Alpha-3; EC 2.7.11.1; MAPKAPK-1b; P90-RSK 3; MAPKAPK1B; Pp90RSK2; ISPK-1; RSK-2; RSK2 | 6197 | P51812 | This gene encodes a member of the RSK (ribosomal S6 kinase) family of serine/threonine kinases. This kinase contains 2 non-identical kinase catalytic domains and phosphorylates various substrates, including members of the mitogen-activated kinase (MAPK) signalling pathway. The activity of this protein has been implicated in controlling cell growth and differentiation. Mutations in this gene have been associated with Coffin-Lowry syndrome (CLS). [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008] |
RPS6KA6 | RSK4; PP90RSK4 | 27330 | Q9UK32 | This gene encodes a member of ribosomal S6 kinase family, serine-threonine protein kinases which are regulated by growth factors. The encoded protein may be distinct from other members of this family, however, as studies suggest it is not growth factor dependent and may not participate in the same signaling pathways. |
RPS6KB1 | S6K; PS6K; S6K1; STK14A; p70-S6K; p70 S6KA; p70-alpha; S6K-beta-1; p70(S6K)-alpha | 6198 | P23443 | This gene encodes a member of the ribosomal S6 kinase family of serine/threonine kinases. The encoded protein responds to mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin) signaling to promote protein synthesis, cell growth, and cell proliferation. Activity of this gene has been associated with human cancer. Alternatively spliced transcript variants have been observed. The use of alternative translation start sites results in isoforms with longer or shorter N-termini which may differ in their subcellular localizations. There are two pseudogenes for this gene on chromosome 17. |
RPS6KB2 | Ribosomal Protein S6 Kinase B2; 70 KDa Ribosomal Protein S6 Kinase 2; Serine/Threonine-Protein Kinase 14B; P70 Ribosomal S6 Kinase Beta; S6 Kinase-Related Kinase; P70 S6 Kinase Beta; P70 S6K-Beta; EC 2.7.11.1; S6K-Beta-2; P70-S6K 2; P70 S6KB; P70-Beta; S6K-Beta; P70S6K2; STK14B | 6199 | Q9UBS0 | This gene encodes a member of the RSK (ribosomal S6 kinase) family of serine/threonine kinases. This kinase contains a kinase catalytic domain and phosphorylates the S6 ribosomal protein and eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4B (eIF4B). Phosphorylation of S6 leads to an increase in protein synthesis and cell proliferation. [provided by RefSeq, Jan 2015] |
SRC | SRC Proto-Oncogene, Non-Receptor Tyrosine Kinase; V-Src Avian Sarcoma (Schmidt-Ruppin A-2) Viral Oncogene Homolog; Proto-Oncogene C-Src; EC 2.7.10.2; P60-Src; SRC1; Proto-Oncogene Tyrosine-Protein Kinase Src; Protooncogene SRC, Rous Sarcoma | 6714 | P12931 | This gene is highly similar to the v-src gene of Rous sarcoma virus. This proto-oncogene may play a role in the regulation of embryonic development and cell growth. The protein encoded by this gene is a tyrosine-protein kinase whose activity can be inhibited by phosphorylation by c-SRC kinase. Mutations in this gene could be involved in the malignant progression of colon cancer. Two transcript variants encoding the same protein have been found for this gene. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008] |
STK17A | STK17A; Human STK17A | 9263 | Q9UEE5 | |
STK17B | DRAK2 | 9262 | O94768 | |
STK3 | KRS1; MST2 | 6788 | Q13188 | This gene encodes a serine/threonine protein kinase activated by proapoptotic molecules indicating the encoded protein functions as a growth suppressor. |
TLR4 | TLR4; toll-like receptor 4; TOLL; CD284; TLR-4; ARMD10; hToll; homolog of Drosophila toll | 7099 | O00206 | The protein encoded by this gene is a member of the Toll-like receptor (TLR) family which plays a fundamental role in pathogen recognition and activation of innate immunity. TLRs are highly conserved from Drosophila to humans and share structural and functional similarities. They recognize pathogen-associated molecular patterns that are expressed on infectious agents, and mediate the production of cytokines necessary for the development of effective immunity. The various TLRs exhibit different patterns of expression. This receptor has been implicated in signal transduction events induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) found in most gram-negative bacteria. Mutations in this gene have been associated with differences in LPS responsiveness. Multiple transcript variants encoding different isoforms have been found for this gene. [provided by RefSeq, Jan 2012] |
TYK2 | Tyrosine Kinase 2; EC 2.7.10.2; Non-Receptor Tyrosine-Protein Kinase TYK2; EC 2.7.10; IMD35; JTK1; | 7297 | P29597 | This gene encodes a member of the tyrosine kinase and, more specifically, the Janus kinases (JAKs) protein families. This protein associates with the cytoplasmic domain of type I and type II cytokine receptors and promulgate cytokine signals by phosphorylating receptor subunits. It is also component of both the type I and type III interferon signaling pathways. As such, it may play a role in anti-viral immunity. A mutation in this gene has been associated with hyperimmunoglobulin E syndrome (HIES) - a primary immunodeficiency characterized by elevated serum immunoglobulin E. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008] |
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