CK2h Human

Casein Kinase 2 (CK2) is a highly conserved serine/threonine protein kinase found in eukaryotic cells. It is known for its role in various cellular processes, including cell cycle regulation, apoptosis, and DNA repair. CK2 is unique due to its constitutive activity, meaning it does not require activation by external signals. The holoenzyme form of CK2 consists of two catalytic subunits (CK2α or CK2α’) and two regulatory subunits (CK2β), forming a tetrameric structure.

The human recombinant CK2 holoenzyme is typically produced using recombinant DNA technology. The process involves the following steps:

1. Gene Cloning: The genes encoding the CK2α, CK2α’, and CK2β subunits are cloned into suitable expression vectors.
2. Expression in Host Cells: These vectors are introduced into host cells, commonly Escherichia coli (E. coli), which are then cultured under conditions that promote the expression of the CK2 subunits.
3. Purification: The expressed proteins are purified using chromatographic techniques. The CK2 holoenzyme is reconstituted during the purification process to ensure the correct assembly of the subunits.
4. Verification: The activity and structural integrity of the recombinant CK2 holoenzyme are verified through various biochemical assays and structural analyses.

CK2 is known for its ability to phosphorylate a wide range of substrates, including proteins involved in signal transduction, transcription, and cell cycle control. The enzyme’s activity is characterized by its preference for acidic substrates and its resistance to inhibition by most protein kinase inhibitors.

1. Phosphorylation Activity: CK2 phosphorylates serine and threonine residues in target proteins. This activity is crucial for regulating the function of these proteins and, consequently, various cellular processes.
2. Substrate Specificity: CK2 has a broad substrate specificity, which allows it to participate in multiple signaling pathways. It is known to phosphorylate proteins such as p53, c-Myc, and RNA polymerase II.
3. Regulation: The activity of CK2 is regulated by its subunit composition and interactions with other cellular proteins. The CK2β subunit, for example, modulates the activity and substrate specificity of the catalytic subunits.

CK2 plays a pivotal role in maintaining cellular homeostasis. Its dysregulation has been implicated in various diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and inflammatory diseases. The enzyme’s ability to phosphorylate a diverse set of substrates makes it a key player in cellular signaling networks.

1. Cancer: Overexpression of CK2 has been observed in several types of cancer, where it promotes cell proliferation and survival. CK2 inhibitors are being explored as potential therapeutic agents for cancer treatment.
2. Neurodegenerative Disorders: CK2 is involved in the phosphorylation of proteins associated with neurodegenerative diseases, such as tau in Alzheimer’s disease. Modulating CK2 activity could offer therapeutic benefits for these conditions.
3. Inflammatory Diseases: CK2 regulates the activity of proteins involved in inflammatory responses. Its role in modulating immune cell function makes it a potential target for treating inflammatory diseases.