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Abstract
AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is the downstream component of a kinase cascade
that acts as a gauge of cellular energy levels. Over the last few years, accumulating
evidence has demonstrated that AMPK is also involved in the regulation of energy balance
at the whole-body level by responding to hormones and nutrient signals, which leads
to changes in energy homeostasis. The physiological relevance of this new role of
AMPK is demonstrated by the fact that impairment of AMPK function is associated with
metabolic alterations, insulin resistance, obesity, hormonal disorders and cardiovascular
disease. Here, we summarize the role of AMPK in the regulation of energy homeostasis.
Understanding this key enzyme and its tissue-specific regulation will provide new
targets for the treatment of metabolic disorders.