Overview:

Leucine zipper-bearing kinase (LZK) is a member of MLK protein family that activates the c-Jun-NH2 terminal kinase pathway by acting as a mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase kinase (MAPKKK) (1). LZK forms dimers/oligomers through its dual leucine zipper‐like motif that is required for activation of the JNK pathway. LZK has also been shown to activate NF‐κB‐dependent transcription through IKK activation. Antioxidant protein-1, molecule found in the mitochondria, modulates the LZK‐induced NF‐κB activation (2).

Gene Aliases:

MAP3K13, MLK, MEKK13

Genbank Number:

NM_004721

References:

1. Ikeda, A. et. al: Identification and characterization of functional domains in a mixed lineage kinase LZK. FEBS Letters. 488(3):190-195, 2001.

2. Masaki, M. et. al: Mixed lineage kinase LZK forms a functional signaling complex with JIP-1, a scaffold protein of the c-Jun NH(2)-terminal kinase pathway. Eur. J. Biochem. 270, 76–83, 2003.