MAST1
MAST1, formerly SAST, is a large brain-enriched member of the MAST branch of the AGC kinases. Its multi-modular layout places the kinase domain toward the N-terminus, followed by a PDZ domain and an extended C-terminal region containing a guanylate-kinase-like module and microtubule-binding segments. MAST1 associates with microtubules and postsynaptic densities, phosphorylates 14-3-3 proteins and contributes to neuronal polarity, dendritic development and PTEN-AKT signalling in neurons. MAST1 mutations cause megacencephalic leukoencephalopathy with subcortical cysts, and the kinase has been proposed as a target in tau pathology and in cancer cell survival. Recombinant MAST1 supports these structural and signalling studies.
