cAMP-Dependent Protein Kinase A (PKA) is a crucial enzyme in cellular signaling, playing a significant role in various physiological processes. The regulatory subunit Iα (RIα) of PKA is particularly important for its function. Recombinant forms of this subunit are used extensively in research to study the enzyme’s mechanisms and interactions.
PKA is a serine/threonine kinase that is activated by cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). It exists as a tetrameric holoenzyme composed of two regulatory ® subunits and two catalytic © subunits. The regulatory subunits inhibit the catalytic subunits in the absence of cAMP. Upon binding cAMP, the regulatory subunits undergo a conformational change that releases the catalytic subunits, allowing them to phosphorylate target proteins .
There are two major types of regulatory subunits: RI and RII. The RIα subunit is one of the isoforms of the RI type. It is encoded by the PRKAR1A gene and is primarily found in the cytosol. The RIα subunit has several domains, including a cAMP-binding domain, a domain that interacts with the catalytic subunit, and an auto-inhibitory domain .
The balance between the different isoforms of PKA, including RIα, is crucial for cellular function. The RIα subunit is involved in regulating cell growth, proliferation, and differentiation. Mutations in the PRKAR1A gene, which encodes the RIα subunit, have been linked to Carney Complex, a condition characterized by an increased risk of benign and malignant tumors .
Recombinant forms of the RIα subunit are produced using various expression systems, such as bacteria, yeast, and mammalian cells. These recombinant proteins are used in research to study the structure and function of PKA, as well as its interactions with other proteins and small molecules. Recombinant RIα subunits are also used in drug discovery to screen for compounds that can modulate PKA activity .