Myotonic dystrophy-related CDC42-binding kinase alpha (MRCKα) mediates methionine- and leucine-stimulated β-casein synthesis in bovine mammary epithelial cells via targeting mTOR
Methionine (Met) and leucine (Leu) are key amino acids that stimulate milk protein synthesis in bovine mammary epithelial cells (BMEC) via the mTOR signaling pathway. This study reveals that MRCKα (myotonic dystrophy-related CDC42-binding kinase alpha) is a critical mediator in this process. At optimal doses (0.6 mM), Met and Leu increased β-casein production and activated mTOR and PI3K signaling. Silencing MRCKα blocked these effects, confirming its role downstream of PI3K and upstream of PKB. These findings uncover a novel regulatory mechanism in milk biosynthesis and offer molecular targets for enhancing milk quality and yield in dairy production.
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Authors
Wang, F.,van Baal, J.,Ma, L.,Gao, X.,Dijkstra, J.,Bu, D.
Publication year
2025
