
The role of creatine kinase
Disease description:
I strained my leg muscles during a long-distance race. After visiting the hospital, the doctor prescribed creatine kinase. Could you please explain what functions creatine kinase has?

Creatine kinase, as a key enzyme present in human cellular cytoplasm and mitochondria, is particularly abundant in myocardial, skeletal, and smooth muscle tissues. Its primary function is to participate in the energy metabolism process, specifically catalyzing the reversible reaction between creatine and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) during muscle contraction, rapidly generating creatine phosphate (CP) and adenosine diphosphate (ADP), thus providing immediate energy supply for rapid and high-intensity muscle contractions. This process is crucial for maintaining normal muscle function and physical performance. Additionally, creatine kinase is also one of the important indicators for assessing myocardial damage, muscle disorders, and sports-related injuries. Abnormally elevated serum levels often indicate tissue damage or disease states, aiding in clinical diagnosis and monitoring of disease progression.