12-O-Tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate

12-O-Tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (also known as TPA or PMA) is a potent tumor promoter often used in research to activate the signal transduction enzyme protein kinase C (PKC). It is a derivative of phorbol.

Chemistry

12-O-Tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate is a phorbol ester. It is structurally similar to diacylglycerol (DAG), a natural activator of PKC. TPA is more potent than DAG in activating PKC because it is not turned over as rapidly as DAG in the cell, allowing it to persist and activate PKC for a longer period of time.

Biological effects

TPA has been shown to have a wide range of effects on cells, many of which are due to its ability to activate PKC. It has been shown to induce cell differentiation, increase cell proliferation, and promote tumor formation in certain types of cells. It can also induce apoptosis in some cells.

Medical research

Due to its potent tumor-promoting activity, TPA has been used extensively in research to study the mechanisms of tumor promotion and carcinogenesis. It has also been used to study the role of PKC in cell function and disease.

Safety

TPA is a potent tumor promoter and should be handled with care. It is a known carcinogen and can cause skin irritation and eye damage.

See also

• Phorbol
• Protein kinase C
• Tumor promotion