Cyclin-dependent kinase 1, Cyclin-dependent kinase 2, Cyclin-dependent kinase 4, Cyclin-dependent kinase 5, Cyclin-dependent kinase 6 (CDK1, CDK2, CDK4, CDK5, CDK6)

Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) are a family of serine/threonine protein kinases critical for the regulation of the eukaryotic cell cycle, transcription, neuronal function, DNA repair, metabolism, and more. Their enzymatic activity is tightly controlled by association with cyclins and kinase inhibitors. CDK1, CDK2, CDK4, and CDK6 drive distinct cell cycle transitions (CDK4/6: G1 phase, CDK2: S phase, CDK1: G2/M transition and mitosis), while CDK5 is primarily involved in neuronal development and function, though also involved in cancer progression and other cellular processes. Aberrant regulation of CDKs is a hallmark of many cancers and some neurodegenerative diseases, making them major targets for therapeutic intervention with several drugs now approved for clinical use[1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8].

Other names

Cdc2, cell division control protein 2 homologcyclin-dependent kinase 2cyclin-dependent kinase 4cyclin-dependent kinase 5cyclin-dependent kinase 6CDKscell cycle kinasesserine/threonine kinases

Small molecule inhibition of kinase activity (competitive inhibition at ATP-binding site). Prevention of cell cycle progression leading to cell cycle arrest (usually G1 or G2/M). Induction of apoptosis in malignant cells. Reduction in phosphorylation of key substrates such as Rb (retinoblastoma protein).