Serine/Threonine Kinase 17A (STK17A), also known as DRAK1 (Death-Associated Protein Kinase-Related 1), is a member of the death-associated protein (DAP) kinase family. This family of kinases is known for its role in regulating apoptosis, a form of programmed cell death crucial for maintaining cellular homeostasis .
STK17A plays a significant role in apoptosis and cellular stress responses. It is an autophosphorylated nuclear protein that can induce apoptosis through its kinase activity . Additionally, STK17A has been implicated in the regulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) within cells, further highlighting its role in cellular stress responses .
STK17A is a target gene of the tumor suppressor protein p53, which is activated in response to DNA damage . This regulation underscores the importance of STK17A in the cellular response to genotoxic stress. The protein is also involved in various signaling pathways, including those related to sweet taste signaling .
Given its role in apoptosis and cellular stress responses, STK17A is of interest in cancer research. Its ability to induce apoptosis makes it a potential target for therapeutic interventions aimed at promoting the death of cancer cells . Moreover, recent studies have suggested that STK17A may play a role in the longevity of centenarians, indicating its broader significance in human health .