cDNA cloning of a membrane-associated. magnesium-dependent 30kDa neutral sphingomyelinase

A major lipid-signaling pathway in mammalian cells implicated the activation of sphingomyelinase (SMase), which hydrolyses sphingomyeline to generate ceramide and phosphocholine. Sphingomyelinase is divided into many isoform groups dependent on optimal pH, and essential cation especially magnesium in their activation. Such as acidic sphingomyelinase, neutral sphingomyelinase and alkaline sphingomyelinase. Ceramide is known as a crucial second messenger in cell responses like cell proliferation. cell cycle arrest. cellular senescence, and apoptosis. (omitted)