Calmodulin-dependent Protein Kinase II

Calmodulin-dependent Protein Kinase II (CaMKII) is an enzyme in cells that plays a key role in how neurons learn and remember. It becomes active when calcium levels in the cell rise, and it uses the calmodulin protein to detect this Calcium signal. Once activated, CaMKII can modify other proteins, influencing processes like strengthening synapses, the connections between nerve cells. This activity is essential for neural plasticity and memory formation. CaMKII's ability to respond precisely to calcium signals makes it a vital component in maintaining healthy brain function.