Alpha-protein kinase 2 (ALPK2)

Alpha-protein kinase 2 (ALPK2) is a serine/threonine protein kinase that belongs to the alpha-protein kinase family, characterized by an unusual alpha-type kinase domain distinct from canonical kinases[1][2][6]. ALPK2 recognizes and phosphorylates protein substrates with surrounding alpha-helical conformations[6]. It plays significant roles in cellular processes such as epicardium morphogenesis, heart development, cardiomyocyte differentiation—where it acts by negatively regulating the Wnt/beta-catenin signaling pathway—and the regulation of gene expression and luminal apoptosis[2][5][6]. ALPK2 is implicated in cancer biology and has been associated with regulation of apoptosis and DNA repair in colonic crypts, suggesting a role in tumor development and possibly in cardiovascular disorders[1][5]. While its physiological functions are increasingly understood, no clinically approved drugs specifically target ALPK2, and there are currently no established biomarkers or safety challenges unique to this kinase.

Other names

ALPK2HAKHeart alpha-protein kinase