Biochemical Characterization of the CAMKV Pseudokinase

North Dakota State University, Fargo ND

Investigators

Abstract

CAMKV is a brain specific pseudokinase and closely related to calmodulin regulated kinase 1 (CAMK1). Gene expression studies and genome wide association studies suggest a possible role of CAMKV in mental disorders, including post-traumatic stress disorder. CAMKV has been identified by the NIH – IDG initiative as a protein in need for additional research. The proposed research will contribute to the biochemical characterization of CAMKV by investigating its mechanism of regulation on the molecular level. In specific aim 1, ligands targeting the degenerated ATP binding pocket of CAMKV will be identified. Expected results, will provide insights in the cellular regulation of CAMKV by endogenous ligands and also identify small-drug like molecules as potential CAMKV inhibitors or activators. In specific aim 2, CAMKV interacting proteins will be isolated from brain tissue. Knowledge of CAMKV targets will be critically important to understand its role in normal neuronal tissue, as well as to provide a foundation for the role of CAMKV in mental diseases.