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Updated: Jun 23, 2026
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Identification of Cyclin-dependent Kinase 1 Specific Phosphorylation Sites by an In Vitro Kinase Assay
Published on: May 3, 2018
NFATc2 Ser170 phosphorylation marks mitosis in development and ES cells
Cell Cycle (Georgetown, Tex.)
|April 28, 2009
Summary
Phosphorylation of NFATc2 at serine 170 marks the M phase of the cell cycle. This finding reveals a novel role for NFATc2 in cell cycle regulation beyond T cell activation.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- NFATc2 (nuclear factor of activated T cells 2) is a transcription factor primarily studied for its role in T cell activation and proliferation.
- It is a key target for immunosuppressive drugs, influencing immune responses.
- Emerging evidence indicates NFATc2 also regulates cell cycle progression in both immune and non-immune cells.
Discussion:
- This study identifies a specific phosphorylation site (p-Ser170) on NFATc2.
- This phosphorylation event serves as a marker for the M phase (mitosis) of the cell cycle.
- The findings were observed in embryonic development and in cultured cells, including fibroblasts and embryonic stem (ES) cells.
Key Insights:
- NFATc2 phosphorylation at Ser170 is a reliable indicator of the M phase.
- NFATc2's function extends to regulating cell cycle progression, independent of its canonical role in T cell activation.
- The study utilized a specific monoclonal antibody targeting phospho-NFATc2 (p-Ser170) for precise detection.
Outlook:
- Further investigation into the upstream kinases and downstream effectors of p-Ser170 NFATc2.
- Exploring the implications of NFATc2's cell cycle role in developmental processes and diseases.
- Potential for developing new therapeutic strategies targeting NFATc2 phosphorylation in cell cycle-related disorders.
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