nounIntermediate
Definition
Enzyme that catalyzes the transfer of a phosphate group from ATP to a substrate peptide or protein — a process called phosphorylation.
Detailed Explanation
Enzyme that catalyzes the transfer of a phosphate group from ATP to a substrate peptide or protein — a process called phosphorylation. Kinases are one of the largest enzyme families in the human genome (~518 kinases, the 'kinome'). By phosphorylating specific serine, threonine, or tyrosine residues, kinases act as molecular switches that turn signaling pathways on or off. Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) transduce peptide hormone signals from the cell surface. Kinase inhibitors (e.g., imatinib, erlotinib) are a major class of cancer drugs.
Key Facts
- Enzyme that catalyzes the transfer of a phosphate group from ATP to a substrate peptide or protein — a process called phosphorylation.
- Kinases are one of the largest enzyme families in the human genome (~518 kinases, the 'kinome').
- By phosphorylating specific serine, threonine, or tyrosine residues, kinases act as molecular switches that turn signaling pathways on or off.
- Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) transduce peptide hormone signals from the cell surface.
- , imatinib, erlotinib) are a major class of cancer drugs.
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