A family of calcium-dependent protein kinases (CDPK), containing a calcium-binding domain, is present in apicomplexan parasites, ciliates and plants, but not in animals. Now crystal structures of CDPKs from Toxoplasma gondii and Cryptosporidium parvum in their apo or calcium-bound states reveal the structural reorganization induced by calcium that results in activation.
- Amy K Wernimont
- Jennifer D Artz
- Raymond Hui
