文摘
BackgroundThe cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2) together with its cyclin E and A partners is a central regulator of cell growth and division. Deregulation of CDK2 activity is associated with diseases such as cancer. The analysis of substrates identified S/T-P-X-R/K/H as the CDK2 consensus sequence. The crystal structure of cyclin A/CDK2 with a short model peptide supports this sequence and identifies key interactions. However, CDKs use additional determinants to recognize substrates, including the RXL motif that is read by the cyclin subunits. We were interested to determine whether additional amino acids beyond the minimal consensus sequence of the well-studied substrate and tumor suppressor p27KIP1 were relevant for catalysis.