Overview:

PDE4C is a member of the phosphodiesterase (PDE) family that is cAMP-specific and has homology to the 'dunce' gene of Drosophila. The 'dunce' gene is one of several genes critical for normal learning and memory in the fly. Homozygous mutations in 'dunce' cause defective short-term memory and behavioral defects (1). PDE4C is assigned to human chromosome 19 by Southern analyses while in situ hybridization localized the PDE4C gene to 19p13.1. PDE4C has been shown to be a substrate for phosphorylation by ERK2 within the C-terminal portion of the PDE4C catalytic unit and this phosphorylation can regulate the activity of PDE4C (2).

Gene Aliases:

DPDE1; MGC126222

Genbank Number:

NM_000923

References:

1. Bolger G, et al: A family of human phosphodiesterases homologous to the dunce learning and memory gene product of Drosophila melanogaster are potential targets for antidepressant drugs. Molec. Cell. Biol. 13: 6558-6571, 1993.

2. Baillie G S, et al: Sub-family selective actions in the ability of Erk2 MAP kinase to phosphorylate and regulate the activity of PDE4 cyclic AMP-specific phosphodiesterases. Br J Pharmacol. 2000 Oct;131(4):811-9.