PIP3
PIP3, or phosphatidylinositol (3,4,5)-trisphosphate, is a lipid molecule that plays a crucial role in cellular signaling. It is produced from PIP2 (phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate) through the action of the enzyme PI3-kinase. PIP3 serves as a docking site for proteins with specific domains, such as AKT, which are involved in various cellular processes, including growth, survival, and metabolism.
In addition to its role in signaling, PIP3 is important for regulating the actin cytoskeleton, which helps maintain cell shape and movement. The levels of PIP3 in cells are tightly controlled, as excessive accumulation can lead to uncontrolled cell growth and is associated with diseases like cancer. Understanding PIP3's functions is essential for developing targeted therapies in such conditions.