Overview:

AMPK is a heterotrimer protein kinase consisting of a α catalytic subunit, and non-catalytic β and γ subunits. AMPK is an important energy-sensing enzyme that monitors cellular energy status (1). In response to cellular metabolic stresses, AMPK is activated and phosphorylates and inactivates acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) and beta-hydroxy beta-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase (HMGCR), key enzymes involved in regulating biosynthesis of fatty acid and cholesterol (2).

Gene Aliases:

Subunit A1: PRKAA1, MGC33776, MGC57364 Subunit B1: PRKAB1, AMPK, HAMPKb, MGC17785 Subunit G1: PRKAG1, AMPKG, MGC8666

Genbank Number:

NM_006251
NM_006253
NM_002733

References:

1. Minokoshi, Y. et al:AMP-kinase regulates food intake by responding to hormonal and nutrient signals in the hypothalamus. Nature 428: 569-574, 2004.

2. Hardie, D G. et al: The AMP-activated protein kinase--fuel gauge of the mammalian cells Eur J Biochem. 1997 Jun 1;246(2):259-73.