Overview:

PAK3 is a member of the family of serine/threonine p21-activating kinases that serve as targets for the small GTP binding proteins Cdc42 and RAC (1). The PAK family of proteins have been implicated in a wide range of biological activities and are critical effectors that link Rho GTPases to cytoskeleton reorganization and nuclear signaling. PAK3 seems to be necessary for dendritic development and for the rapid cytoskeletal reorganization in dendritic spines associated with synaptic plasticity. A point mutation in PAK3 gene has been linked to nonsyndromic X-linked mental retardation (2).

Gene Aliases:

Stk4, mPAK-3, Pak65beta, Pak65alpha

Genbank Number:

NM_008778

References:

1. Manser, E. et al: Molecular cloning of a new member of the p21-Cdc42/Rac-activated kinase (PAK) family. J. Biol. Chem. 270: 25070-25078, 1995.

2. Bienvenu, T. et al: Missense mutation in PAK3, R67C, causes X-linked nonspecific mental retardation. Am. J. Med. Genet. 93: 294-298, 2000.