The Sphingomyelinase Family
Currently, five types of SMase have been identified. These are classified according to their cation dependence and pH optima of action and are:
- Lysosomal Acid SMase
- Secreted zinc-dependent Acid SMase
- Magnesium-dependent Neutral SMase
- Magnesium-independent Neutral SMase
- Alkaline SMase
Of these, the lysosomal acidic SMase and the magnesium-dependent neutral SMase are considered major candidates for the production of ceramide in the cellular response to stress.
Read more about this topic: Sphingomyelin Phosphodiesterase
Famous quotes containing the word family:
“The touchstone for family life is still the legendary “and so they were married and lived happily ever after.” It is no wonder that any family falls short of this ideal.”
—Salvador Minuchin (20th century)