Recombinant Human DGKq protein

DGKη (Diacylglycerol kinase eta) is a member of the diacylglycerol kinase (DGK) family, which comprises enzymes that phosphorylate diacylglycerol (DAG) to produce phosphatidic acid (PA). These lipid mediators play critical roles in cellular signaling, regulating processes such as membrane trafficking, cell proliferation, and apoptosis. Among the 10 mammalian DGK isoforms, DGKη is distinguished by its unique structural features, including a pleckstrin homology (PH) domain, a sterile alpha motif (SAM) domain, and a C-terminal region rich in proline and glutamic acid residues. These domains suggest roles in protein-protein interactions and subcellular localization.

DGKη is predominantly expressed in the brain, testis, and skeletal muscle, implicating its importance in neuronal function and tissue-specific signaling. It modulates the balance between DAG and PA, thereby influencing downstream pathways like protein kinase C (PKC) and mTOR, which are pivotal for cell growth and survival. Dysregulation of DGKη has been linked to neurological disorders, cancer, and metabolic syndromes. For instance, reduced DGKη activity in the brain is associated with impaired synaptic plasticity, while its overexpression in certain cancers may promote tumor progression via aberrant lipid signaling.

Recombinant DGKη proteins are engineered using expression systems (e.g., E. coli, mammalian cells) to study its enzymatic activity, structure-function relationships, and interactions with signaling molecules. These tools enable researchers to dissect its role in lipid metabolism and disease mechanisms, offering potential therapeutic targets. Recent studies also explore DGKη’s involvement in insulin signaling and immune responses, expanding its relevance beyond traditional lipid pathways. Overall, DGKη recombinant proteins serve as vital resources for unraveling the complex interplay between lipid kinases and human health.