GSK3B

GSK3B Full Name

glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta

GSK3B Introduction

Glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3B) is a serine/threonine kinase that plays a pivotal role in numerous cellular processes, including metabolism, cell proliferation, and apoptosis. Initially identified for its role in glycogen metabolism, GSK3B has since been recognized as a key regulator in multiple signaling pathways, such as the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, insulin signaling, and NF-κB-mediated inflammatory responses. Its widespread expression across tissues and involvement in both physiological and pathological processes make GSK3B a highly attractive target for therapeutic intervention, particularly in conditions where cellular signaling balance is disrupted.

Functionally, GSK3B acts as a molecular switch that modulates the activity of various proteins through phosphorylation. It is involved in controlling cell cycle progression, neuronal development, and synaptic plasticity, highlighting its importance in both central nervous system and peripheral tissue function. Dysregulation of GSK3B can lead to altered protein stability and aberrant signal transduction, which may promote uncontrolled cell growth, neurodegeneration, or metabolic disturbances. Its dual role as both a positive and negative regulator in different contexts underscores the complexity of targeting GSK3B for therapeutic purposes, requiring precise modulation rather than complete inhibition.

Clinically, GSK3B has been implicated in a range of diseases, making it a promising target for drug discovery. Overactivity of GSK3B is linked to neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, where it contributes to tau hyperphosphorylation and amyloid pathology. In oncology, GSK3B dysregulation affects tumor growth, metastasis, and chemoresistance, particularly in colorectal, pancreatic, and breast cancers. Moreover, aberrant GSK3B activity is associated with metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes, bipolar disorder, and inflammatory conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis. The broad involvement of GSK3B across these disease states emphasizes its potential as a therapeutic target, offering opportunities to develop small-molecule inhibitors or modulators that can restore signaling homeostasis and improve patient outcomes.

Alternate Names for GSK3B

GSK3B; glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta; glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta; GSK-3 beta; GSK3beta isoform; serine/threonine-protein kinase GSK3B;

• 1.Zheng Y, et al.; GSK3B inhibition reduced cervical cancer cell proliferation and migration by modulating the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Braz J Med Biol Res. 2024, 57:e13796.
  2.Taylan E, et al.; Dual targeting of GSK3B and HDACs reduces tumor growth and improves survival in an ovarian cancer mouse model. Gynecol Oncol. 2020, 159(1):277-284.