[AMPK as a cellular energy sensor and its function in the organism].

The adenine monophosphate (AMP) activated protein kinase (AMPK), is a heterotrimeric complex that is activated by an increase in the AMP/ATP ratio, and is considered to be a cellular energy sensor that contributes to regulate energy balance and caloric intake. AMPK is activated by LKB1 hinase and it can phophorylate several enzymes involved in anabolism to prevent further ATP consumption, and induces some catabolic enzymes to increase ATP generation. Furthermore, AMPK regulates the expression of genes involved in lipogenesis and mitochondrial biogenesis, among others.