The role of AMP-activated protein kinase in mitochondrial biogenesis

J Physiol. 2006 Jul 1;574(Pt 1):33-9. doi: 10.1113/jphysiol.2006.109512. Epub 2006 May 18.

Abstract

While it has been known for more than 75 years that physical activity is associated with increased mitochondrial content in muscle, the molecular mechanism for this adaptive process has only recently been elucidated. This brief review examines existing studies that have identified AMPK-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and several other key regulators of mitochondrial biogenesis, including peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma coactivator-1alpha and -1beta, calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase IV, and nitric oxide. In addition, the potential role of mitochondrial dysfunction in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance associated with ageing and type 2 diabetes mellitus is also discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • AMP-Activated Protein Kinases
  • Animals
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / enzymology*
  • Energy Metabolism / physiology
  • Exercise / physiology
  • Humans
  • Mitochondria, Muscle / physiology*
  • Mitochondrial Proteins / metabolism*
  • Multienzyme Complexes / metabolism*
  • Muscle Contraction / physiology
  • Muscle, Skeletal / physiology*
  • Physical Endurance / physiology*
  • Physical Exertion / physiology*
  • Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases / metabolism*

Substances

  • Mitochondrial Proteins
  • Multienzyme Complexes
  • Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases
  • AMP-Activated Protein Kinases