Unfolding the pathophysiological role of bioactive lysophospholipids.

Yan Xu, Yi Jin Xiao, Kui Zhu, Linnea M. Baudhuin, Jun Lu, Guiying Hong, Kwan Sik Kim, Kelly L. Cristina, L. Song, Freager S Williams, Paul Elson, Maurie Markman, Jerome Belinson

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

71 Scopus citations

Abstract

Lysophospholipids (LPLs), including glycerol- and sphingoid-based lipids, stimulate cell signaling and play important pathophysiological roles in humans and other animals. These LPLs include lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), lysophosphatidylinositol (LPI), lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC), lysophosphatidylserine (LPS), sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), and sphingosylphosphorylcholine (SPC). Analyses of LPLs in human body fluids from subjects with different pathophysiological conditions reveal not only the relevance of LPLs in human diseases, but also their potential application as biomarkers and/or therapeutic targets. In recent years, the identification and/or characterization of the plasma membrane receptors for LPLs and enzymes regulating the metabolism of LPLs have greatly facilitated our understanding of their role and signaling properties. In vitro and in vivo functional and signaling studies have revealed the broad and potent biological effects of LPLs and the mechanisms of LPL actions in different cellular systems. Development of specific antagonists for each of the LPL receptors will provide powerful tools for dissecting signaling pathways mediated by receptor subtypes. More importantly, these antagonists may serve as therapeutics for relevant diseases. Genetic depletion of LPL receptors in mice has provided and will continue to provide critical information on the pathophysiological roles of LPL receptors. It is important to further evaluate the significance of targeting these bioactive LPL receptors, their downstream signaling molecules, and/or metabolic enzymes in the treatment of cancers and other diseases.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)23-32
Number of pages10
JournalCurrent drug targets. Immune, endocrine and metabolic disorders
Volume3
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 2003

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism
  • Immunology and Allergy

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Unfolding the pathophysiological role of bioactive lysophospholipids.'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this