Overview:

AMPK (A1/B2/G1) 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 β subunit may be a positive regulator of AMPK activity and is highly expressed in skeletal muscle (2).

Gene Aliases:

Subunit A1: PRKAA1, MGC33776, MGC57364 Subunit B2: PRKAB2, MGC61468 Subunit G1: PRKAG1, AMPKG, MGC8666

Genbank Number:

NM_006251
NM_005399
NM_002733

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. Thornton, C. et al: Identification of a novel AMP-activated protein kinase beta subunit isoform that is highly expressed in skeletal muscle. J. Biol. Chem. 273: 12443-12450, 1998.