[6][7] eEF-2 kinase is a highly conserved protein kinase in the calmodulin-mediated signaling pathway that links multiple up-stream signals to the regulation of protein synthesis.

It phosphorylates eukaryotic elongation factor 2 (EEF2) and thus inhibits the EEF2 function.

First, calcium-calmodulin binds with high affinity to activate the kinase domain, triggering rapid autophosphorylation of Thr-348.

[9] The activity of this kinase is increased in many cancers and may be a valid target for anti-cancer treatment.

[6][11] It is also suggested that eEF-2K may play a role the rapid anti-depressant effects of ketamine through its regulation of neuronal protein synthesis.