Protein kinase Cε:: the mitochondria-mediated signaling pathway

Mitochondria, which are the cellular energy plants, also act as the integration center of cellular signaling pathways. Apoptosis is a well-known pathway in which mitochondria are involved. Protein kinase C epsilon has been classified as a novel type of protein kinase C and is involved in many cellular events regulating mitochondrial function. Much evidence has accumulated regarding the relationships between mitochondria-mediated apoptosis and protein kinase C epsilon. Therefore, by focusing on these relationships, in particular the anti-apoptotic effects of protein kinase C epsilon on mitochondrial function, we highlight the importance and significance of protein kinase C epsilon in cell survival and death.