AK (and AQ, KQ, etc.) is a very tricky hand to play. Here is some advise that's helped me, although I don't have the numbers on how well I play the hand.

Make a callable pre-flop raise. Don't raise to 6x the BB on a table with 50% rational players. You'll get what you went rooting for.

If it's heads up, be inclined to bet just about any flop 75% or so. Fold to a (check) raise.
If 2 others see the flop be a little more careful. Having position helps a lot because you can check the turn for your 5th card.
If 3 or more other see the flop and you miss the flop, check + fold unless the situation just screams steal. You got approximate odds on flopping your Ace. Leave it at that.

If it's a family pot and you hit, brace for impact. By the time you bet enough to protect your pair on a PP NL stack you will have almost no hope of laying down to a better hand. Just ask Heatman

Also adjust for calling stations. If there is one in the pot be less inclined to bet out a miss and more inclined to take a free 4rth card if you can get it.