PXK/Slob

PXK (the counterpart of Drosophila Slob) is a modular protein that fuses an N-terminal PX domain, a kinase-like pseudokinase domain, and a C-terminal region related to binding partners of ion pumps. The PX domain mediates membrane association, while the protein binds the Na,K-ATPase beta-subunit and modulates its trafficking and pumping activity, echoing the role of fly Slob in regulating the Slowpoke BK potassium channel. Catalytic kinase function for PXK has not been established; it appears to act primarily as a scaffold at membranes. Recombinant PXK supports studies of ion-transport regulation, PX-domain membrane targeting, and pseudokinase scaffolding.