The cAMP independent PKA of the present invention has been identified by an unusual characteristic that it retains in holoenzyme structure upon activation and does not dissociate like the cAMP dependent PKA upon activation. This unique molecule also is activated by sphingosine or equivalent molecules and is intricately involved in activities associated with the molecule 14-3-3. Compositions and methods of using the unique characteristics identified are applied to controlling cellular processes including cell survival and cell death.
