Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate 3-kinases: functions and regulations

Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate 3-kinase (IP3 3-kinase/IP(3)K) plays an important role in signal transduction in animal cells by phosphorylating inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) to inositol 1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate (IP(4)). Both IP(3) and IP(4) are critical second messengers which regulate calcium (Ca(2+)) homeostasis. Mammalian IP3Ks are involved in many biological processes, including brain development, memory, learning and so on. It is widely reported that Ca(2+) is a canonical second messenger in higher plants. Therefore, plant IP3K should also play a crucial role in plant development. Recently, we reported the identification of plant IP3K gene (AtIpk2beta/AtIP3K) from Arabidopsis thaliana and its characterization. Here, we summarize the molecular cloning, biochemical properties and biological functions of IP3Ks from animal, yeast and plant. This review also discusses potential functions of IP3Ks in signaling crosstalk, inositol phosphate metabolism, gene transcriptional control and so on.