The AMPK-MNK1 signaling axis

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is an important energy sensor which maintains cellular metabolic/energy homeostasis. Currently, AMPK has been linked with metabolic syndrome and cancer. However, the exact molecular mechanisms for the roles of AMPK in pathogenesis are barely understood. In this project, we identified MAP kinase interacting serine/threonine-protein kinase 1a (MNK1a) as a novel AMPK-substrate, which is currently treated as a cancer therapy target. Specifically, we show AMPK-dependent human MNK1a phosphorylation correlates with increased eIF4E (a crucial factor in protein translation regulation) phosphorylation in vitro and in vivo.