Publications by authors named "M Banko"

Septins are a conserved, essential family of GTPases that interact with actin, microtubules, and membranes and form scaffolds and diffusion barriers in cells. Several of the 13 known mammalian septins assemble into nonpolar, multimeric complexes that can further polymerize into filamentous structures. While some GFP-coupled septins have been described, overexpression of GFP-tagged septins often leads to artifacts in localization and function.

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AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a central energy gauge that regulates metabolism and has been increasingly involved in non-metabolic processes and diseases. However, AMPK's direct substrates in non-metabolic contexts are largely unknown. To better understand the AMPK network, we use a chemical genetics screen coupled to a peptide capture approach in whole cells, resulting in identification of direct AMPK phosphorylation sites.

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The Hedgehog (Hh) pathway regulates cell differentiation and proliferation during development by controlling the Gli transcription factors. Cell fate decisions and progression toward organ and tissue maturity must be coordinated, and how an energy sensor regulates the Hh pathway is not clear. AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is an important sensor of energy stores and controls protein synthesis and other energy-intensive processes.

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ERH is a small, highly evolutionarily conserved nuclear protein of unknown function. Its three-dimensional structure is absolutely unique and it can form a homodimer through a β sheet surface. ERH has been shown to interact, among others, with PDIP46/SKAR and Ciz1.

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Article Synopsis
  • AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a key energy sensor activated by low nutrient levels and is now being recognized for functions beyond just cellular metabolism.* -
  • A recent study identified 28 new substrates that AMPK phosphorylates in human cells, particularly those involved in mitosis and cytokinesis, including PPP1R12C and PAK2.* -
  • The phosphorylation by AMPK is essential for proper mitosis completion, indicating that AMPK helps link nutrient status with cell division, which could be important in developmental processes or in adult stem and cancer cells.*
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