Phosphorylation consensus sequences

Phosphorylation consensus sequences are specific patterns of amino acids within proteins that enzymes recognize to attach phosphate groups. Think of them as molecular "tags" or "addresses" that guide enzymes (like kinases) to the right spot on a protein. These patterns help ensure that phosphorylation—a common process regulating protein activity—happens precisely where needed. While each enzyme may prefer a different sequence, these consensus sequences are a key to understanding how cells control protein functions and signaling pathways efficiently.