AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) responds to hormonal and nutrient signals in the central nervous system and peripheral tissues, modulating food intake and whole-body energy homeostasis. The kinase is activated by an elevated AMP/ATP ratio due to cellular and environmental stress, such as heat shock, hypoxia and ischemia. Phosphorylates AMPKalpha1/2 at Thr172/Thr174 in the activation loop and this phosphorylation is required for AMPK activation. . In its activated state, AMPK phosphorylates serine residues 79, 1,200, and 1,215 of acetyl-coenzyme A carboxylase (ACC) which is reducing the activity of ACC. ACC is a potential target of anti-obesity drugs.