AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) senses cellular energy status to maintain a balance between ATP production and consumption, and has important roles in regulating cell growth and proliferation. Here, crystal structures of kinase and autoinhibitory domains from yeast AMPK subunits, together with biochemical data, reveal a mechanism for AMPK autoinhibition and suggest a model for allosteric activation by AMP.
- Lei Chen
- Zhi-Hao Jiao
- Jia-Wei Wu