Myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) is a serine/threonine kinase and the gene encoding it is localized on human chromosome 3q21.1.
Synonyms: Myosin light chain kinase
Storage: -20C
Biochem Physiol Actions: Myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) is activated by the binding of Ca2+/calmodulin. It has a role in smooth muscle contraction. The kinase phosphorylates the regulatory light chain of smooth muscle myosin. This stimulates ATPase activity of the myosin heads and leads to the myosin power stroke, which is crucial for muscle contraction. MLCK also assists the interaction of myosin with actin. Loss of function of the protein has been linked to megacystis microcolon intestinal hypoperistalsis syndrome.