Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 6, 2026

Author Spotlight: Advancing Real-Time cAMP Detection in Cells Using cADDis Biosensor
Published on: March 22, 2024
Salt-Inducible Kinases: Physiology, Regulation by cAMP, and Therapeutic Potential
Marc N Wein1, Marc Foretz2, David E Fisher3
1Endocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
Abstract:
Salt-inducible kinases (SIKs) represent a subfamily of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) family kinases. Initially named because SIK1 (the founding member of this kinase family) expression is regulated by dietary salt intake in the adrenal gland, it is now apparent that a major biological role of these kinases is to control gene expression in response to extracellular cues that increase intracellular levels of cAMP. Here, we review four physiologically relevant examples of how cAMP signaling impinges upon SIK cellular function. By focusing on examples of cAMP-mediated SIK regulation in gut myeloid cells, bone, liver, and skin, we highlight recent advances in G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signal transduction. New knowledge regarding the role of SIKs in GPCR signaling has led to therapeutic applications of novel small molecule SIK inhibitors.
Related Concept Videos
cAMP-dependent Protein Kinase Pathways
Protein Kinases and Phosphatases
Protein kinases
Many proteins in the cell are regulated by phosphorylation, the addition of a phosphate group. A family of enzymes called kinases...
Responses to Salt Stress
Determining the pH of Salt Solutions
Regulated Protein Degradation
Protein degradation plays two important roles in the cells. It helps to protect cells from misfolded or damaged proteins before they lead to a...
Positive Regulator Molecules

