PMA

Most commonly-used phorbol ester. Binds to and activates protein kinase C (PKC) at nM concentrations. Induces cell growth arrest through a variety of pathways including the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), p38 and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) pathways mediated by cyclin dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitors such as p21WAF1/CIP1, p27KIP1, p15 and p16. Potent mouse skin tumor promoter. Promoter of inducible NOS (iNOS; NOS II). Apoptosis inducer. Potential effective cancer therapeutic agent. Inhibitor of anti-lipolytic activity of insulin.