PAK3

Serine/threonine-protein kinase PAK 3 is an is_associated_with::enzyme that in humans is encoded by the PAK3 is_associated_with::gene.

Function
PAK proteins are critical effectors that link Rho GTPases to cytoskeleton reorganization and nuclear signaling. PAK proteins, a family of serine/threonine p21-activating kinases, serve as targets for the small GTP binding proteins Cdc42 and RAC and have been implicated in a wide range of biological activities. The protein encoded by this gene forms an activated complex with GTP-bound RAS-like (P21), CDC2 and RAC1 proteins which then catalyzes a variety of targets. This protein may be necessary for dendritic development and for the rapid cytoskeletal reorganization in dendritic spines associated with synaptic plasticity.

Clinical significance
A point mutation in this gene has been linked to nonsyndromic is_associated_with::X-linked mental retardation.

Interactions
PAK3 has been shown to interact with is_associated_with::RAC1.