Cdk1 and Cdk2 complexes (cyclin dependent kinases) in apoptosis: a role beyond the cell cycle.
The family of cyclin-dependent kinase complexes (Cdks) are well known for their role in the cell division cycle. What is less well known, however, is that Cdks also participate in a subset of apoptosis programs. Evidence for the role of Cdks in apoptosis comes from a variety of experimental approaches, including studies using genetic mutants, protein inhibitors, and chemical inhibitors of protein kinase activity. The precise role of Cdks in apoptosis remains to be defined, although one promising approach to clarify this question is to identify Cdk protein substrates during apoptosis. Currently a number of Cdk inhibitors are being tested in clinical trials. By understanding how Cdks function during apoptosis it may be possible to optimise the use of these inhibitors in treating human tumours by blocking proliferation but permitting apoptosis.
Golsteyn
Roy M
RM
Cancer Research Division, Institut de Recherches Servier, 125 ch. de Ronde, Croissy-sur-Seine, Paris F 78290, France. roy.golsteyn@fr.netgrs.com
D000818:Animals; D017209:Apoptosis / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology*; D016203:CDC2 Protein Kinase / Q000187:drug effects / Q000378:metabolism*; D042846:CDC2-CDC28 Kinases / Q000187:drug effects / Q000378:metabolism*; D002453:Cell Cycle / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology*; D051357:Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 2; D004791:Enzyme Inhibitors / Q000494:pharmacology; D006801:Humans
D004791:Enzyme Inhibitors; D016203:CDC2 Protein Kinase; D042846:CDC2-CDC28 Kinases; C495894:CDK2 protein, human; D051357:Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 2