PKA (Protein kinase A)

Protein kinase A (PKA) is an enzyme that acts as a molecular switch to regulate several cellular processes. When a signaling molecule like cyclic AMP (cAMP) increases inside a cell, it activates PKA. Once active, PKA adds phosphate groups to specific proteins, changing their activity, location, or interactions. This modification influences processes such as energy production, gene expression, and cell growth. Essentially, PKA transmits signals from the cell’s exterior to its interior, orchestrating responses that help the cell adapt to its environment.