GLOSSARY

Phospholipase C (PLC) Signaling
Phospholipase C signaling cleaves the membrane phospholipid PIP2 to generate inositol trisphosphate and diacylglycerol. These products connect an activated receptor with intracellular calcium release and regulation of selected protein kinase C isoforms.

Different entry points

PLC-beta commonly operates downstream of Gq-coupled receptors. PLC-gamma can be activated in pathways linked to receptor tyrosine kinases. The PLC family should therefore not be assigned to only one receptor class.

Coordinated messengers

IP3 moves through the cytosol to its receptors, while DAG remains in the membrane. Their different locations allow the cell to combine spatially distinct signals.

Endocrine significance

Hormones such as TRH and GnRH can use PLC-associated pathways in pituitary cells. The final secretory or transcriptional effect depends on calcium dynamics, receptor pattern and downstream protein expression rather than on phospholipid cleavage alone.