About the structure and biological function of SphP
Structure. Sphingosine-phosphates (sphingosine-1-phosphates, S1P, or SphP) belong to the group of sphingoid bases within the sphingolipids. Their structure consists of an amino alcohol with a monounsaturated hydrocarbon chain linked to a phosphate molecule.
Function. Sphingosine-phosphates are mostly known for their role in intra- and inter-cellular signaling such as the coordination of cell proliferation, survival, and invasion. SphP is produced by a variety of blood cells. The diverse homeostatic roles of S1P and S1P receptors have been shown to influence disease such as sepsis, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and a range of cancers and cardiovascular diseases.
