| We found that thymosin beta 4 formed a functional complex with PINCH and integrin linked kinase ( ILK ) , resulting in activation of the survival kinase Akt ( also known as protein kinase B ) . ^^^ After coronary artery ligation in mice , thymosin beta 4 treatment resulted in upregulation of ILK and Akt activity in the heart , enhanced early myocyte survival and improved cardiac function . ^^^ |