Overview:

SPHK1 catalyzes the phosphorylation of sphingosine to form sphingosine-1-phosphate (SPP) which is a novel lipid messenger with both intracellular and extracellular functions. Various stimuli increase cellular levels of SPP by activation of SPHK1 (1). Competitive inhibitors of SPHK1 block formation of SPP and selectively inhibit cellular proliferation induced by a variety of factors. SPHK1/sphingosine-1-phosphate pathway contributes to colon carcinogenesis. SPHK1 plays a key role in the generation and release of proinflammatory mediators triggered by anaphylatoxins from human macrophages and also is involved in the process of immune cell motility (2).

Gene Aliases:

SPHK

Genbank Number:

BC008040

References:

1. Xia, P. et al: Sphingosine kinase interacts with TRAF2 and dissects tumor necrosis factor-alpha signaling. J. Biol. Chem. 2777996-8003, 2002.

2. Pappu, R. et al: Promotion of lymphocyte egress into blood and lymph by distinct sources of sphingosine-1-phosphate. Science 316295-298, 2007.