Akap1, also known as A-kinase anchoring protein 1, is a mitochondrial protein encoded by the Akap1 gene. It is localized in the outer mitochondrial membrane and plays a crucial role in regulating mitochondrial homeostasis. Akap1 is involved in multiple cellular processes by anchoring protein kinase A (PKA), thus regulating PKA-mediated phosphorylation and related signaling pathways [3].

In diabetic kidney disease, up-regulated Akap1 activates PKC signaling, phosphorylates Larp1, reduces TFAM expression, and impairs mtDNA replication, leading to mitochondrial dysfunction and podocyte injury. Knocking down Akap1 can rescue these impairments [1].

In diabetic cardiomyopathy, Akap1 deficiency exacerbates cardiac dysfunction, mitochondrial respiratory impairment, and cardiomyocyte apoptosis through NDUFS1-mediated mitochondrial dysfunction. Restoring Akap1 expression alleviates diabetic cardiomyopathy [2].

In diet-induced obesity, Akap1 knockout mice are resistant to obesity, as Akap1 inhibits fatty acid β-oxidation and thermogenesis in brown adipocytes [4].

In conclusion, Akap1 plays a significant role in maintaining mitochondrial function and is involved in various disease conditions such as diabetes-related kidney and heart diseases, as well as obesity. Gene knockout mouse models have been crucial in revealing its functions in these biological processes and disease mechanisms, providing potential therapeutic targets for these diseases.