PAK3 siRNA – Serine/Threonine-Protein Kinase PAK 3 Isoform a (Human)

PAK proteins are critical effectors that link Rho GTPases to cytoskeleton reorganization and nuclear signaling. PAK proteins, a family of serine/threonine p21-activating kinases, serve as targets for the small GTP binding proteins Cdc42 and RAC and have been implicated in a wide range of biological activities. The protein encoded by this gene forms an activated complex with GTP-bound RAS-like (P21), CDC2 and RAC1 proteins which then catalyzes a variety of targets. This protein may be necessary for dendritic development and for the rapid cytoskeletal reorganization in dendritic spines associated with synaptic plasticity. Defects in this gene are the cause of non-syndromic mental retardation X-linked type 30 (MRX30), also called X-linked mental retardation type 47 (MRX47). Alternatively spliced transcript variants encoding different isoforms have been identified. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008]

PAK3: a protein kinase of the STE20 family that regulates synapse formation and plasticity in the hippocampus. May be necessary for dendritic development and for the rapid cytoskeletal reorganization in dendritic spines associated with synaptic plasticity. Forms an activated complex with GTP-bound P21, CDC2 and RAC1 proteins. Missense and truncation mutations linked to nonsyndromic mental retardation type 30 (MRX30). Two alternatively spliced human isoforms have been reported.

Protein type: Kinase, protein; EC 2.7.11.1; Protein kinase, Ser/Thr (non-receptor); Protein kinase, STE; STE group; STE20 family; PAKA subfamily

Chromosomal Location of Human Ortholog: Xq23

Cellular Component: cytoplasm; plasma membrane; cytosol; endosome

Molecular Function: MAP kinase kinase activity; protein serine/threonine kinase activity; protein binding; Rho GTPase binding; metal ion binding; SH3 domain binding; ATP binding; receptor signaling protein serine/threonine kinase activity

Biological Process: axon guidance; activation of MAPK activity; MAPKKK cascade; T cell receptor signaling pathway; protein amino acid phosphorylation; regulation of actin filament polymerization; axonogenesis; positive regulation of neuron apoptosis; T cell costimulation; synapse organization and biogenesis; ephrin receptor signaling pathway; dendrite development; mitotic cell cycle; vascular endothelial growth factor receptor signaling pathway

Disease: Mental Retardation, X-linked 30