Function
Sphingolipids are a class of lipids, containing a sphingosine base moiety, essential for eukaryotic cell membrane structure and function. [1] Importantly, sphingolipids can additionally act as critical signaling molecules used in many eukaryotic homeostatic cellular processes, such as inflammation, proliferation, apoptosis, cell migration, and pathogen defense. [1] Because of this, it is critical for sphingolipids and their metabolizing enzymes to exist in a delicate homeostatic balance within the eukaryotic cell system.
Sphingosine-1-Phosphate (S1P), a lipid within the sphingolipid class, is an important signaling molecule that can participate in intracellular and extracellular signaling. [1] [2] If meant to be an intracellular signaling molecule, S1P is important for cell survival, growth, and overall function.[2] Alternatively, if S1P is meant to be an extracellular signal, later binding to one of five different S1P G-protein coupled receptors on the same or different cell type, it is used to activate many signaling cascades essential for eukaryotic cell health. [2] One important function of S1P, whether its fate serves intracellularly or extracellularly, is eliciting the immune response, especially as a mechanism in pathogen defense. [2]
Sphingosine Kinase, existing in two isoenzyme forms, SphK1 and SphK2, creates S1P via the phosphorylation of sphingosine, the base moiety of all sphingolipids. [2]
Relevance
Structural highlights
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