Adenylate Cyclase

Adenylate cyclase is a critical enzyme found in many types of cells, where it catalyzes the conversion of ATP to cyclic AMP (cAMP) and pyrophosphate. As a key component of cellular signaling pathways, particularly those linked to G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), adenylate cyclase plays a vital role in translating extracellular signals into cellular responses. The production of cAMP acts as a second messenger involved in regulating a myriad of physiological processes including hormone signaling, heart rate, and glucose metabolism. Targeting adenylate cyclase can influence these pathways, making it a significant therapeutic target in treating diseases such as heart failure, diabetes, and certain psychological disorders where signaling pathways are disrupted.