Protein kinase C in T-cell regulation.

Protein kinase C (PKC) is activated when a T cell is stimulated by antigen or mitogen: the binding of receptor and ligand induces hydrolysis of phosphatidylinositol phosphates and production of the PKC activating substance diacylglycerol. However, the biochemical consequences of PKC activation are complex. Here, Wulf Drdge discusses the various positive and negative effects of PKC activation on cell proliferation and on the functional activation of helper and cytotoxic T cells.