CDK11A (Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 11A) is a member of the cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) family that plays critical roles in RNA splicing, cell cycle regulation, and transcription. Located on chromosome 1p36.21, this gene encodes a serine/threonine protein kinase that is ubiquitously expressed with particularly high levels in the brain[1][2].
CDK11A is unique among CDKs in that it is encoded by a gene that also produces CDK11B through alternative splicing. Together, these isoforms form the CDK11 family, which is involved in numerous cellular processes relevant to neuronal function and neurodegeneration. The kinase has emerged as a potential therapeutic target in neurodegenerative diseases due to its roles in RNA processing, stress responses, and neuronal survival[3].
The CDK11A gene spans approximately 12 kb and consists of 18 exons encoding a 795-amino acid protein with a molecular weight of approximately 92 kDa. The gene is evolutionarily conserved across vertebrates.
flowchart TD
A["N-terminal\nSerine-rich"] --> B["Kinase Domain"]
B --> C["C-terminal\nRegulatory"]
D["Cyclin Binding"] <- A
E["Substrate Binding"] <- B
F["Protein Interactions"] <- C
G["Nuclear Localization"] <- C
N-terminal Region: Contains serine-rich sequences and cyclin interaction motifs
Kinase Domain (aa 150-350): Catalytic domain with typical CDK active site motifs
C-terminal Region: Regulatory sequences including nuclear localization signals