PRKACA

PRKACA, also known as protein kinase A catalytic subunit alpha, is a gene in humans that encodes for the catalytic subunit alpha of cAMP-dependent protein kinase A (PKA). PKA is a serine/threonine kinase that plays a crucial role in various cellular processes, including metabolism, gene transcription, cell growth, and differentiation. It is activated by the second messenger cyclic AMP (cAMP).

The PRKACA gene is located on chromosome 19p13.11. The protein encoded by this gene is a member of the protein kinase superfamily and contains a catalytic domain that phosphorylates serine and threonine residues on target proteins.

Upon binding of cAMP to the regulatory subunits of PKA, the regulatory subunits dissociate from the catalytic subunits, activating the latter. The activated catalytic subunits then phosphorylate specific target proteins, leading to a cascade of downstream effects.

Mutations in the PRKACA gene have been linked to various diseases and conditions, including Cushing's syndrome and fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma. Overexpression or dysregulation of PRKACA can contribute to tumorigenesis and other pathological conditions. The activity of PRKACA is tightly regulated by various mechanisms, including cAMP levels, protein phosphatases, and regulatory subunits.