Human Adenosine Kinase (ADK) Protein

Background

Adenosine kinase (ADK) is a fundamental enzyme in purine metabolism that phosphorylates adenosine to produce adenosine monophosphate (AMP), thereby regulating intracellular adenosine concentrations. This activity is critical for maintaining energy balance, nucleotide synthesis, and the modulation of adenosine-dependent signaling pathways. Adenosine is a potent neuromodulator and anti-inflammatory molecule, and ADK indirectly controls its availability, affecting processes such as cellular stress responses, immune modulation, and neuronal excitability. Dysregulation of ADK has been implicated in epilepsy, ischemia, and cancer, as reduced adenosine levels exacerbate excitotoxicity, inflammation, and metabolic stress. In cancer, overexpression of ADK supports tumor metabolism by favoring nucleotide production. ADK inhibitors are under investigation as therapeutic agents for neurological disorders, where enhancing extracellular adenosine can exert protective effects against seizures and neurodegeneration. Expanding research into ADK highlights its role as a central regulator of energy metabolism and its potential as a therapeutic target for a variety of diseases.