Tyrosine kinases

Tyrosine kinases are enzymes that play a crucial role in cell communication by adding phosphate groups to specific proteins on the amino acid tyrosine. This process, called phosphorylation, helps regulate various cell functions like growth, division, and survival. Think of tyrosine kinases as molecular switches that activate or deactivate proteins, ensuring cells respond properly to signals. When these switches malfunction or become overactive, it can lead to diseases such as cancer. Because of their central role, tyrosine kinases are important targets for many modern drugs designed to treat these conditions.