Cdk1 is a small protein (approximately 34 kilodaltons), and is highly conserved. Cdk1 is comprised mostly by the bare protein kinase motif, which other protein kinases share. Cdk1, like other kinases, contains a cleft in which ATP fits. When bound to its cyclin partners, Cdk1 phosphorylation leads to cell cycle progression. Given its essential role in cell cycle progression, Cdk1 is highly regulated. Most obviously, Cdk1 is regulated by its binding with its cyclin partners. Cyclin binding alters access to the active site of Cdk1, allowing for Cdk1 activity; furthermore, cyclins impart specificity to Cdk1 activity. At least some cyclins contain a hydrophobic patch which may directly interact with substrates, conferring target specificity. Furthermore, cyclins can target Cdk1 to particular subcellular locations.
