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Protein kinase C--a question of specificity
1Protein Phosphorylation Laboratory, Imperial Cancer Research Fund, London, UK.
Trends in Biochemical Sciences
|February 1, 1994
Summary
Protein kinase C (PKC) is a large family of related proteins, not a single entity. Recent evidence suggests these diverse PKC isotypes possess unique cellular functions.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Protein kinase C (PKC) was first identified in the late 1970s.
- Extensive research has revealed PKC comprises a large family of related proteins.
- These protein kinase C isotypes exhibit distinct primary structures and properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the heterogeneity within the protein kinase C (PKC) family.
- To highlight recent evidence supporting unique functions for individual PKC isotypes.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of protein kinase C research.
- Analysis of data on PKC isotype structure, expression, localization, and activation.
- Synthesis of findings on PKC isotype functional specificity.
Main Results:
- PKC is a diverse family with multiple isotypes.
- Isotypes differ in primary structure, expression patterns, subcellular localization, and activation.
- Evidence suggests distinct functional roles for different PKC isotypes.
Conclusions:
- The heterogeneity of the PKC family is a key feature.
- Individual PKC isotypes likely mediate separate and unique cellular functions.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the specific roles of each PKC isotype.