CDKs

Definition

Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) are enzymes that work together with cyclins to regulate various stages of the cell cycle. They phosphorylate target proteins involved in controlling DNA replication and chromosome segregation.

Related terms

Phosphorylation:

The process of adding a phosphate group (-PO4) to a molecule. In cellular processes such as signal transduction pathways or regulation of protein activity, phosphorylation often serves as an 'on' switch for certain proteins.

Cell Division:

The process by which a parent cell divides into two or more daughter cells. It can occur through mitosis (in somatic cells) or meiosis (in germ cells).

Kinase:

An enzyme that adds a phosphate group to another molecule, typically a protein, altering its function and activity. CDKs are an example of kinases.