The PIK3R1 gene provides instructions for making a part (subunit) of an enzyme called phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K). The primary function of the subunit is to regulate the enzyme’s activity. Several slightly different versions of this regulatory subunit are produced from the PIK3R1 gene; the most abundant of these is called p85 alpha (p85α).
PI3K is a kinase, which means that it adds a cluster of oxygen and phosphorus atoms (a phosphate group) to other proteins through a process called phosphorylation. PI3K phosphorylates certain signaling molecules, which triggers a series of additional reactions that transmit chemical signals within cells. PI3K signaling is important for many cell activities, including cell growth and division (proliferation), movement (migration) of cells, production of new proteins, transport of materials within cells, and cell survival.
Studies suggest that PI3K signaling may be involved in how cells regulate several hormones. One of these hormones is insulin, which helps control levels of blood glucose, also called blood sugar. PI3K signaling may also play a role in the maturation of fat cells (adipocytes).
Other Names
p85; p85-ALPHA; P85A_HUMAN; phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase 85 kDa regulatory subunit alpha; phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase regulatory subunit alpha; phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-associated p-85 alpha; phosphoinositide-3-kinase regulatory subunit; PI3-kinase subunit p85-alpha; PI3K regulatory subunit alpha
Related Genetics Topics
- Short stature, hyperextensibility, hernia, ocular depression, Rieger anomaly, and teething delay — MedlinePlus Genetics
- Activated PI3K-delta syndrome — MedlinePlus Genetics
Identifiers
- NCBI Gene: 5295
- OMIM: 171833
Source: MedlinePlus Genetics, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
