Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 5 Special Topic Issue: Neurosignals 2003, Vol. 12, No. 4-5

Since their discovery about 10 years ago, cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5) and its activators, p35 and p39, have emerged as important players in both developing and mature brains. Significant advances have been made in Cdk5 research on many fronts in the last few years. This special issue contains a collection of review articles on the current state of Cdk5 research by leading scientists in their respective areas. A large number of cellular proteins in neurons have been found to be Cdk5 substrates or to associate with its activators, thus implicating the protein kinase in a wide range of neuronal functions.The elucidation of the crystal structure of a Cdk5 activator complex has shed light on the structural basis of the unique regulatory properties of Cdk5. Deregulation of the protein kinase has been found to contribute to the pathology of several neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Researchers in the fields of neuroscience, cell biology and physiology will find a useful and comprehensive overview on the structure, the mechanism of action, physiological functions and the disease involvement of Cdk5.