Diacylglycerols as activators of protein kinase C

Mol Membr Biol. 2004 Nov-Dec;21(6):339-49. doi: 10.1080/09687860400010508.

Abstract

Diacylglycerols are generated in the membrane as the result of extracellular signals and are able to stimulate the activity of protein kinase C, acting as membrane second messengers. Diacylglycerols are recognized by protein kinases C through the C1 domain and established models propose that they will stabilize the translocation of the protein to the membrane. However, diacylglycerols also act by modulating the physical properties of the membrane, thus favouring the translocation of the enzyme. This is done through alteration of the membrane surface curvature, dehydration of the surface and the separation of phospholipid surface groups. Good correlations have been observed between the physical state of the membrane and protein kinase C activity.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Membrane / metabolism
  • Diglycerides / metabolism*
  • Diglycerides / pharmacology
  • Enzyme Activation / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Protein Kinase C / chemistry
  • Protein Kinase C / metabolism*
  • Substrate Specificity

Substances

  • Diglycerides
  • Protein Kinase C