Cyclic AMP (cAMP)

Definition

cAMP (cyclic adenosine monophosphate) is a second messenger important in many biological processes. It relays signals from extracellular molecules to intracellular targets, facilitating cellular responses.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. cAMP is synthesized from ATP by the enzyme adenylate cyclase.
2. cAMP activates protein kinase A (PKA), which then phosphorylates various proteins to propagate the signal.
3. Its levels are regulated by the action of phosphodiesterases, which break down cAMP into AMP.
4. cAMP plays a crucial role in the regulation of glycogen, sugar, and lipid metabolism.
5. It is involved in the signaling pathways of many hormones, such as adrenaline and glucagon.

Review Questions

Related terms

adenylate cyclase:

An enzyme that converts ATP to cyclic AMP in response to an extracellular signal.

protein kinase A (PKA): An enzyme activated by cAMP that phosphorylates target proteins to alter their activity.

phosphodiesterase:

Enzymes that degrade cAMP into AMP, thereby regulating its levels within the cell.