Roles of DGKs in neurons: postsynaptic functions?

Publication date: Available online 28 November 2019Source: Advances in Biological RegulationAuthor(s): Casey N. Barber, Daniel M. RabenAbstractDiacylglycerol kinases (DGKs) contribute to an important part of intracellular signaling because they generate phosphatidic acid (PtdOH). Recent research has led to the discovery of ten DGK isoforms, all of which are found in the mammalian brain. Many of these isoforms have studied functions within the brain, while others lack such understanding in regards to neuronal roles, regulation, and structural dynamics. However, while previously a neuronal function for DGKθ was unknown, it was recently found that DGKθ is required for the regulation of synaptic vesicle endocytosis and work is currently being conducted to elucidate the mechanism behind this regulation. Here we will review some of the roles of all DGKs and hypothesize additional roles. We will address the topic of redundancy among the ten DGK isoforms and discuss the possibility that DGKθ, among other DGKs, may have unstudied postsynaptic functions. We also hypothesize that in addition to DGKθ’s presynaptic endocytic role, DGKθ might also regulate the endocytosis of AMPA receptors and other postsynaptic membrane proteins.

Source: Advances in Biological Regulation - November 28, 2019 Category: Biology Source Type: research