Abstract: Glycogen synthase kinase-3βis a multifunctional Ser/Thr kinase, and its activity has been associated with many cell processes. The mitochondrial permeability transition pore is primed by ischemia to open upon reperfusion, leading to reperfusion induced cell necrosis. Phosphorylated GSK-3β inhibits mPTP opening presumably by multiple mechanisms, including preservation of hexokinase II in mPTP complex, prevention of interaction of cyclophilin-D with adenine nucleotide translocase, inhibition of P53 activation and attenuation of ATP hydrolysis during ischemia.

Key words: glycogen synthase kinase-3β, mitochondrial permeability transition pore, signal transduction, reperfusion injury