ABSTRACT

Enzymatic phosphate transfers are some of the predominant mechanisms for regulating the growth, differentiation, and metabolism of cells. The post-translational modication of proteins with phosphate leads to dramatic changes in conformation, resulting in the modulation of binding, catalysis, and recruitment of effector molecules that regulate cellular signaling pathways. Examples include the recruitment of SH2 domain containing proteins, the activation of gene transcription pathways, and the activation or deactivation of specic cell surface receptors. Regulation and control by kinases and phosphatases are important in the activation of disease pathways, including inammation and oncogenesis. Protein kinases and phosphatases are responsible for triggering gross physiological changes and represent important classes of drug targets.