Overview:

AMPK (A1/B1/G3) is a member of the AMPK family which are heterotrimeric proteins consisting of an alpha catalytic subunit, and non-catalytic beta and gamma subunits. AMPKs are an important energy-sensing enzyme group in the cells that monitor energy status particularly in response to stress (1). AMPKs regulate fatty acid and cholesterol synthesis by regulating the key rate-limiting enzymes acetyl-CoA carboxylase and hydroxy beta-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase. The γ subunit is dominantly expressed in skeletal muscle where it may play a key role in the regulation of energy metabolism (2).

Gene Aliases:

Subunit A1:PRKAA1, MGC33776, MGC57364Subunit B1:PRKAB1, AMPK, HAMPKb, MGC17785Subunit G3:PRKAG3

Genbank Number:

NM_006251NM_006253NM_017431

References:

1.Viollet, B. et al: Physiological role of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK): insights from knockout mouse models. Biochem. Soc. Trans. 2003; 31; 216–219.2.Cheung, P. C. F. et al: Characterization of AMP-activated protein kinase gamma-subunit isoforms and their role in AMP binding. Biochem. J. 346: 659-669, 2000.