AMPK Regulation of Glucose, Lipid and Protein Metabolism: Mechanisms and Nutritional Significance.

AMP-activated protein kianse (AMPK) is a master sensor of cellular energy levels and a crucial regulator of nutrient metabolism such as the synthesis of fatty acids, glucose and protein as well as their oxidation to CO2 and water . Thus, AMPK signaling has important implications for fat deposition and glucose homeostasis in animals and humans. Much experimental and clinical evidence show that AMPK is a key therapeutic target for the prevention of diseases such as obesity, diabetes, cancer, inflammation and cardiac dysfunction. In this review we highlight recent advances on the upstream and downstream targets of AMPK, as well as the specific mechanisms whereby AMPK regulates digestive functions and chronic energy balance in animals and humans.