G kinase-anchoring protein 1 (GKAP1)

G kinase-anchoring protein 1 is a scaffold protein that organizes and anchors cGMP-dependent protein kinase I alpha (cGK-Iα) and possibly other signaling molecules to specific subcellular sites, thus facilitating spatially constrained signal transduction. In humans, it regulates insulin-dependent IRS1 tyrosine phosphorylation, modulating IRS1 availability to the insulin receptor and is required for insulin-induced translocation of glucose transporter SLC2A4 to the membrane in adipocytes. GKAP1 appears important in germ cell development, particularly its mouse homolog. Broadly, GKAP1’s scaffold functions anchor kinases and phosphatases, enabling precise and efficient intracellular signaling within pathways such as those mediated by G-protein-coupled receptors, though it is not itself a receptor or enzyme.

Other names

GKAP1GKAP42cGMP-dependent protein kinase anchoring protein 42kDa

Not directly targeted by drugs; may modulate drug actions that involve insulin signaling (e.g., antidiabetic agents) by scaffolding IRS1 and insulin receptor interactions.