DNA-PK: A Potential Drug Target Or Biomarker (P16091)

Target Name: DNA-Dependent Protein Kinase (DNA-PK)

NCBI ID: P16091

Other Name(s): DNPK | DNA-PK

DNA-PK: A Potential Drug Target Or Biomarker

DNA-Dependent Protein Kinase (DNA-PK), also known as DNPK, is a protein that plays a crucial role in cell signaling pathways. It is a member of the superfamily of DNA-protein kinases, which includes enzymes such as DNA-PK itself, DNA-PK-like 1 (DNPL1), and DNA-PK-like 2 (DNPL2). These enzymes are involved in the regulation of DNA replication, repair, and metabolism, and are potential drug targets or biomarkers for a variety of diseases.

DNA-PK is a nuclear protein that is primarily localized to the nuclei of eukaryotic cells. It consists of a 21 kDa catalytic domain and a 150 amino acid long N-terminal non-catalytic region. The catalytic domain of DNA-PK contains a classic kinase domain with an amino-terminal hypervariable region (HVR) that is involved in the formation of a stable phosphate intermediate during the catalytic cycle. The HVR is important for DNA-PK's catalytic activity, as it allows the enzyme to recognize and interact with DNA in a specific way.

DNA-PK is involved in a wide range of cellular processes, including DNA replication, cell growth, and apoptosis. It is a key regulator of DNA replication, as it ensures that the double helix is accurately replicated in the cell. DNA-PK is also involved in the regulation of cell growth and apoptosis, as it can induce cell death when necessary and can also inhibit the growth of cancer cells.

DNA-PK has been identified as a potential drug target or biomarker for a variety of diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and autoimmune disorders. For example, DNA-PK has been shown to be highly expressed in various types of cancer, including breast, ovarian, and prostate cancer. It has also been shown to be involved in the regulation of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. In addition, DNA-PK has been identified as a potential biomarker for autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis.

DNA-PK has also been shown to be involved in the regulation of cellular processes that are important for human health, such as cell signaling pathways and inflammation. For example, DNA-PK has been shown to be involved in the regulation of T cell development and activation, as well as in the regulation of inflammation.

In conclusion, DNA-PK is a protein that plays a crucial role in cell signaling pathways and is involved in a wide range of cellular processes. It is a potential drug target or biomarker for a variety of diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, autoimmune disorders, and cell signaling pathways. Further research is needed to fully understand the role of DNA-PK in cell signaling pathways and to develop effective treatments for these diseases.

Protein Name: DNA-Dependent Protein Kinase (DNA-PK)

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