AMPK Complex (α1, β1, and γ1 subunits; human, recombinant)

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a heterotrimeric serine/threonine kinase.¹ It is composed of an α subunit, two β subunits, and two γ subunits. The α and β subunits each have two isoforms, designated as α1, α2, β1, and β2, which differ at residues affected by post-translational modifications, and the γ subunit has γ1, γ2, and γ3 isoforms. The diversity of isoforms that can comprise the AMPK complex impart differing functions and subcellular localization.^1,2 AMPK is ubiquitously expressed in eukaryotes, and AMPK complexes containing an α1 subunit are localized to the cytoplasm.² AMPK is activated by phosphorylation of the α subunit by kinases and/or by AMP or ADP binding to the γ subunit, which occurs under low energy conditions with high ratios of AMP/ADP to ATP, or an increase in intracellular calcium levels.^1,3 In this way, AMPK acts as a regulator of cellular energy homeostasis. It can also be activated under conditions of oxidative stress, where it functions as a redox sensor.² Its activity is decreased under high energy conditions where ATP, glucose, fatty acids, and amino acids are plentiful.¹ AMPK is involved via its downstream signaling pathways in lipid and glucose metabolism, protein synthesis, autophagy, and redox regulation, as well as inhibition of inflammatory processes.^1,3 AMPK activation in vivo reduces adiposity in mice, as well as inhibits proliferation of cancer cells in vitro and reduces tumor growth in mouse xenograft models.² Cayman's AMPK α1, β1, and γ1 Subunits (human, recombinant) protein can be used for enzyme activity assay applications. This protein consists of 1,160 amino acids and has a calculated molecular mass of approximately 146 kDa.

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1. Jeon, S.-M. Regulation and function of AMPK in physiology and diseases. Exp. Mol. Med. 48(7), e245 (2016).

2. Shirwany, N.A., and Zou, M.-H. AMPK: A cellular metabolic and redox sensor. A minireview. Front. Biosci. (Landmark Ed.) 19, 447-474 (2014).

3. Hardie, D.G., Ross, F.A., and Hawley, S.A. AMPK: A nutrient and energy sensor that maintains energy homeostasis. Nat. Rev. Mol. Cell Biol. 13(4), 251-262 (2012).