protein phosphorylation

Protein phosphorylation is a chemical reaction catalyzed by enzymes called kinases. These enzymes transfer a phosphate group, typically from ATP, to specific molecules, most notably proteins. This process can alter a protein's shape and, consequently, its function.12

In proteins, kinases can add phosphate groups to the amino acids serine, threonine, and tyrosine. The reversible nature of this process, involving both kinases and phosphatases, is crucial for cell signaling, as it allows for the regulation of protein activity. Phosphorylation also plays a role in lipid and nucleic acid metabolism, and in processes like glycolysis. Inhibitors of kinases are used in treating diseases like chronic myelogenous leukemia.1