cAMP biosynthetic process

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The chemical reactions and pathways resulting in the formation of the nucleotide cAMP (cyclic AMP, adenosine 3',5'-cyclophosphate). [ISBN:0198506732]

The cAMP biosynthetic process, also known as the cyclic AMP signaling pathway, is a crucial intracellular signaling cascade that plays a vital role in regulating a wide range of cellular functions. It begins with the activation of a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) by an extracellular signal, such as a hormone or neurotransmitter. This activation triggers a series of events: 1) The activated GPCR stimulates the G protein, causing it to exchange GDP for GTP. 2) The activated G protein, specifically the alpha subunit, dissociates from the beta and gamma subunits and interacts with adenylate cyclase. 3) Adenylate cyclase, an enzyme embedded in the cell membrane, is stimulated by the alpha subunit of the G protein, leading to the conversion of ATP into cAMP (cyclic adenosine monophosphate). 4) cAMP, a second messenger molecule, diffuses through the cytoplasm and activates protein kinase A (PKA), a key enzyme in the cAMP signaling pathway. 5) Activated PKA phosphorylates various downstream target proteins, altering their activity and ultimately leading to a cellular response. The response can vary depending on the specific cell type and the downstream targets involved. In summary, the cAMP biosynthetic process involves a series of steps initiated by GPCR activation, culminating in the production of cAMP and the activation of PKA, which then regulates cellular functions through phosphorylation of target proteins.'
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Proteins (10)

Compounds (9)