Dear Colleagues,

Protein kinases selectively modify other proteins by covalently adding phosphates as opposed to kinases which modify lipids, carbohydrates, or other molecules. Protein kinases are mainly categorized into two groups: Serine/threonine kinases, which phosphorylate the hydroxyl groups of serines and threonines in their targets, and tyrosine kinases, which phosphorylate tyrosine amino acid residues.

Protein kinases play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of numerous diseases. While protein kinases are essential for cellular signaling processes such as growth, differentiation and apoptosis, dysregulation is frequently implicated in the pathophysiology of various diseases. Aberrant kinase activity can lead to uncontrolled cell proliferation and tumor formation. Kinase dysfunction is also associated with neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Additionally, protein kinases play a crucial role in metabolic diseases such as diabetes and obesity, acting central to the intricate signaling networks related to glucose and lipid metabolism.

Understanding the intricate roles of protein kinases in various diseases is crucial for the development of targeted therapies that aim to restore cellular balance and alleviate the suffering of affected individuals. In this Special Issue, we invite colleagues to submit original research and literature reviews on the role of protein kinases in diseases, and the possible interventions that can help to regulate them to support therapeutic interventions.

Prof. Jinbong Park, Prof. Ji Hoon Jung and Dr. Hyo In Kim
Guest Editors