AMPK: guardian of metabolism and mitochondrial homeostasis.

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) senses cellular energy levels and phosphorylates a variety of cellular substrates to inhibit or stimulate anabolic and catabolic processes, adjusting metabolism to energy needs. Recent studies have uncovered a crucial role of AMPK in the regulation of mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy, further expanding its role in the control of cellular metabolism.