Calcium-dependent protein kinases (CDPKs)

Calcium-dependent protein kinases (CDPKs) are specialized enzymes found mainly in plants and some protists. They act as sensors and responders to changes in calcium levels within cells. When calcium levels rise, CDPKs become activated and transfer phosphate groups to other proteins, regulating processes like growth, stress responses, and development. Essentially, CDPKs translate calcium signals into actions inside the cell, helping the organism adapt to its environment efficiently.