Adenylate kinase 3 (AK3)

Adenylate kinase 3 (AK3) is a mitochondrial matrix enzyme that catalyzes the reversible transfer of phosphate from GTP to AMP, producing GDP and ADP, and plays a crucial role in maintaining nucleotide balance and energy homeostasis within the mitochondria[1][2][3][4]. It helps coordinate oxidative phosphorylation and glycolysis and is implicated in regulating cellular responses to oxidative stress, mitochondrial function, and proliferation. AK3 knockdown in cultured cells leads to decreased ATP levels, increased oxidative stress, altered metabolite profiles, and reduced cell proliferation[1]. While there is emerging evidence for its role in cancer cell metabolism and cellular stress responses, its precise function—beyond nucleotide metabolism—remains under study. Mutations or deficiencies in AK3 are associated with rare genetic diseases and mitochondrial disorders, but no drugs specifically target AK3 directly in current therapeutic practice[4].

Other names

AK3AK3L1AK6AKL3LAKL3L1GTP:AMP phosphotransferase AK3, mitochondrialAdenylate kinase isozyme 3Adenylate kinase 3 alpha-like 1FIX

Drugs that modulate mitochondrial nucleotide levels or that inhibit mitochondrial GTP synthesis could indirectly affect AK3 function or related metabolic pathways[1]. No specific mechanism of action with targeted drugs is established.