calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinases
Calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinases (CaMKs) are a group of enzymes that play a crucial role in cellular signaling. They are activated by the binding of calcium ions to calmodulin, a calcium-binding messenger protein. Once activated, CaMKs phosphorylate various target proteins, influencing numerous cellular processes such as metabolism, gene expression, and muscle contraction.
These kinases are essential for many physiological functions, including neuronal signaling and cardiac function. Dysregulation of CaMK activity can lead to various diseases, highlighting their importance in maintaining cellular health and function. Understanding CaMKs can provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for related disorders.