AMP-activated protein kinase signaling in metabolic regulation
Yun Chau Long, Juleen R. Zierath
Yun Chau Long, Juleen R. Zierath
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AMP-activated protein kinase signaling in metabolic regulation

Abstract

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is an energy sensor that regulates cellular metabolism. When activated by a deficit in nutrient status, AMPK stimulates glucose uptake and lipid oxidation to produce energy, while turning off energy-consuming processes including glucose and lipid production to restore energy balance. AMPK controls whole-body glucose homeostasis by regulating metabolism in multiple peripheral tissues, such as skeletal muscle, liver, adipose tissues, and pancreatic β cells — key tissues in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes. By responding to diverse hormonal signals including leptin and adiponectin, AMPK serves as an intertissue signal integrator among peripheral tissues, as well as the hypothalamus, in the control of whole-body energy balance.

Authors

Yun Chau Long, Juleen R. Zierath

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Figure 1

Structure and regulation of AMPK.

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Structure and regulation of AMPK. AMPK is a heterotrimeric complex consi...
AMPK is a heterotrimeric complex consisting of an α, a β, and a γ subunit and is activated by the upstream kinases CaMKK and LKB1 via phosphorylation of threonine residue 172. Activation of AMPK by CaMKK and LKB1 is dependent on the intracellular calcium and AMP/ATP ratio, respectively. Generally, AMPK restores energy balance by activating processes that produce energy (e.g., lipid oxidation and glucose uptake) while inhibiting those that consume energy (e.g., protein synthesis).