Cell signaling, the essential role of O-GlcNAc!
An increasing body of evidence points to a central regulatory role for glucose in mediating cellular processes and expands the role of glucose well beyond its traditional role(s) in energy metabolism. Recently, it has been recognized that one downstream effector produced from glucose is UDP-GlcNAc. Levels of UDP-GlcNAc, and the subsequent addition of O-linked beta-N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc) to Ser/Thr residues, is involved in regulating nuclear and cytoplasmic proteins in a manner analogous to protein phosphorylation. O-GlcNAc protein modification is essential for life in mammalian cells, highlighting the importance of this simple post-translational modification in basic cellular regulation. Recent research has highlighted key roles for O-GlcNAc serving as a nutrient sensor in regulating insulin signaling, the cell cycle, and calcium handling, as well as the cellular stress response.
Zachara
Natasha E
NE
Department of Biological Chemistry, Johns Hopkins Singapore, 31 Biopolis Way, #02-01 The Nanos, 138669 Singapore.
Hart
Gerald W
GW
D000117:Acetylglucosamine / Q000378:metabolism*; D000818:Animals; D002453:Cell Cycle / Q000502:physiology*; D002467:Cell Nucleus / Q000378:metabolism*; D002468:Cell Physiological Phenomena; D005947:Glucose / Q000378:metabolism*; D006801:Humans; D007328:Insulin / Q000378:metabolism*; D009685:Nuclear Envelope / Q000378:metabolism*; D018384:Oxidative Stress / Q000502:physiology; D015398:Signal Transduction / Q000502:physiology*
D007328:Insulin; D005947:Glucose; D000117:Acetylglucosamine