Adaptor-associated protein kinase 1 (AAK1)

Adaptor-associated protein kinase 1 (AAK1) is a serine/threonine protein kinase that regulates clathrin-mediated endocytosis by phosphorylating the AP2M1/mu2 subunit of the adaptor protein complex 2 (AP-2), facilitating cargo recognition and vesicle formation during receptor internalization. It plays an essential role in the trafficking and internalization of various membrane-bound receptors, endocytic accessory factor recruitment, and has been implicated in the regulation of the Notch signaling pathway. AAK1 is also involved in the entry and lifecycle of several RNA viruses, including hepatitis C, dengue, and Ebola, making it a promising antiviral drug target; inhibitors of AAK1 are being explored for their ability to disrupt viral entry and replication. Therapeutic targeting must account for its broad role in endocytosis and signaling to avoid off-target effects.

Other names

AP2-associated protein kinase 1KIAA1048DKFZp686K16132Adaptor-associated kinase 1alternative protein AAK1

Inhibition of AAK1 kinase activity impairs clathrin-mediated endocytosis, thereby blocking intracellular trafficking and entry of multiple RNA viruses and, potentially, influencing receptor signaling