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AMPK

Cellular energy sensor activated by rising AMP:ATP ratio that switches metabolism toward catabolism (fatty acid oxidation, glucose uptake, autophagy) and away from anabolism (lipogenesis, protein synthesis).

Also: 5'-AMP-activated protein kinase, AMP-activated protein kinase

AMPK is a heterotrimeric kinase activated by upstream LKB1 (in response to energy depletion) and CaMKKβ (in response to calcium). Active AMPK inhibits acetyl-CoA carboxylase (lowering malonyl-CoA, derepressing CPT1, enabling β-oxidation) and inhibits mTORC1. Metformin, exercise, and caloric restriction activate AMPK, the molecular basis for their metabolic benefits.

How one textbook covers it

  • Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease, 12th ed. — Ch 46: Mechanisms of Nutrient Sensing

    AMPK is a heterotrimeric kinase activated by upstream LKB1 (in response to energy depletion) and CaMKKβ (in response to calcium). Active AMPK inhibits acetyl-CoA carboxylase (lowering malonyl-CoA, derepressing CPT1, enabling β-oxidation) and inhibits mTORC1. Metformin, exercise, and caloric restriction activate AMPK, the molecular basis for their metabolic benefits.

Related terms

Sirtuins, mTORC1, β-Oxidation