Cholesterol and PI(4,5)P2 in Vital Biological Functions (eBook)

Cholesterol is an essential component of the plasma membrane. Phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PI(4,5)P₂), although a minor phospholipid, is the most abundant membrane phosphoinositide. Both lipids play key roles in a variety of cellular functions including as signalling molecules and major regulators of protein function. Studies on these important lipids have traditionally focused on the effect of each lipid individually. Accumulating evidence indicates, however, that these lipids may cross-regulate each other's levels. Furthermore, it is becoming evident that cholesterol and PI(4,5)P₂ can act together to modulate protein function and biological processes.

This book provides an overview of cellular functions and molecular mechanisms in which cholesterol and PI(4,5)P₂ functions extend from parallel existence to crosstalk. It includes four sections. The first section introduces the reader to cholesterol and PI(4,5)P₂. The second section demonstrates the mutual influence of these two critical lipids on their levels. The third section, divided into two parts, describes the co-modulation of protein function by cholesterol and PI(4,5)P₂. The first part focuses on ion channels and the second - on lipid transfer proteins. The fourth section highlights other cellular processes at the intersection of cholesterol and PI(4,5)P₂ involvement. Collectively, the book portrays the emerging relationship between cholesterol and PI(4,5)P₂ in a broad array of biological systems and processes.

Provides a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge of the interplay between cholesterol and PI(4,5) P₂

Provides an overview of the emerging relationship between cholesterol and PI(4,5)P₂ in biological systems and processes

Discusses cellular processes and molecular mechanisms where lipid functions extend from parallel existence to crosstalk

Avia Rosenhouse-Dantsker, DSc, is a Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Her research background ranges from quantum theory and computational biology to biophysical chemistry, molecular biology and electrophysiology. Her current research employs experimental and computational approaches to elucidate structural and functional mechanisms of protein modulation with a special emphasis on the co-modulation of ion channels by lipids (e.g., cholesterol, phosphoinositides, and others).