Kinase Signaling
Kinase signaling refers to the process by which enzymes called kinases add phosphate groups to specific proteins, a modification that can alter the protein's function. This phosphorylation can activate or deactivate enzymes, change protein interactions, and influence cellular processes such as growth, metabolism, and apoptosis. Kinase signaling is crucial for transmitting signals within cells in response to external stimuli.
There are various types of kinases, including protein kinases and lipid kinases, each targeting different substrates. Dysregulation of kinase signaling pathways is often linked to diseases, including cancer, making them important targets for therapeutic interventions. Understanding these pathways can help in developing drugs that specifically inhibit or enhance kinase activity.