Biliverdin reductase: more than a namesakeThe reductase, its peptide fragments and biliverdin regulate activity of the three classes of protein kinase C.

• Main Authors: Peter E.M. Gibbs (Author), Cicerone eTudor (Author), Mahin D Maines (Author)
• Format: Book
• Published: Frontiers Media S.A., 2012-03-01T00:00:00Z.
• Subjects: article
• Online Access: Connect to this object online.
• Notes: 1663-9812; 10.3389/fphar.2012.00031
• Keywords: Peptides; Protein Kinase C; Biliverdin Reductase; Signaling Pathways; Biliverdin; Therapeutics. Pharmacology; RM1-950
• Source: Frontiers in Pharmacology, Vol 3 (2012)

The expanse of human biliverdin reductase (hBVR) functions in the cells is arguably umatched by any single protein. hBVR is a Ser/Thr/Tyr kinase, a scaffold protein, a transcription factor and an intracellular transporter of gene regulators. hBVR is an upstream activator of the insulin/IGF-1 signaling pathway and of PKC kinases in the two major arms of the pathway. In addition, it is the sole means for generating the antioxidant bilirubin-IXα. hBVR is essential for activation of ERK1/2 kinases by upstream MAPKK-MEK and by PKCδ, as well as the nuclear import and export of ERK1/2. Small fragments of hBVR are potent activators and inhibitors of the ERK kinases and PKCs: as such, they suggest the potential application of BVR-based technology in therapeutic settings. Presently, we have reviewed the function of hBVR in cell signaling with an emphasis on regulation of PKCδ activity.