The Phospho-AMPK alpha 1/2 (Thr183/Thr172) antibody is a critical tool for studying AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation, a central regulator of cellular energy homeostasis. AMPK, a heterotrimeric enzyme composed of alpha (catalytic), beta, and gamma subunits, senses energy deficits via rising AMP/ATP ratios. Activation requires phosphorylation of the alpha subunit at specific residues: Thr183 in alpha 1 (human isoform) and Thr172 in alpha 2. These phosphorylation events, mediated by upstream kinases like LKB1 or CaMKKβ, trigger conformational changes that enhance AMPK activity, enabling its role in restoring energy balance by promoting catabolic pathways (e.g., glucose uptake, fatty acid oxidation) and inhibiting anabolic processes (e.g., lipid synthesis).
This antibody specifically detects phosphorylated Thr183/Thr172 residues, serving as a marker for AMPK activation status. It is widely used in research to investigate metabolic disorders (e.g., diabetes, obesity), cancer (where AMPK modulates cell proliferation), and aging. Validations often include Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, or immunoprecipitation in models with metabolic stressors (e.g., exercise, nutrient deprivation) or pharmacological AMPK activators (e.g., AICAR, metformin). Cross-reactivity between alpha 1 and alpha 2 isoforms depends on sequence homology, requiring validation in specific experimental systems. Proper controls (e.g., unphosphorylated lysates, phosphatase treatment) ensure specificity. Understanding AMPK phosphorylation dynamics via this antibody provides insights into cellular adaptation to stress and therapeutic targeting of metabolic diseases.