An Insight on Protein Kinases and Their Therapeutic Perspective

Abstract

This book chapter investigates protein kinases, pivotal enzymes governing cellular signaling, and regulation. Constituting around 2% of human genes, protein kinases play a vital role in phosphorylation, a crucial post-translational modification dictating cellular functions. Emphasizing their dynamic nature as molecular switches, the chapter explores their structural intricacies and regulatory mechanisms. It classifies protein kinases into five families based on evolutionary and structural resemblances, each contributing to diverse signaling pathways governing cell growth, metabolism, and immune responses. Dysregulation of these kinases is implicated in various diseases. The chapter discusses the significance of protein kinases in cancer therapy, highlighting targeted treatments such as small molecule inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies. It further explores their role in neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, as well as their involvement in cardiovascular diseases, emphasizing their potential as therapeutic targets. Additionally, it sheds light on the regulatory role of protein kinases in inflammatory conditions, suggesting kinase inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies as promising strategies for managing diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease. Overall, the chapter provides a comprehensive overview of protein kinases, underlining their structural diversity, regulatory mechanisms, and pivotal roles in physiological and pathological contexts, thereby highlighting their potential as promising targets for personalized medicine interventions across various diseases.