Role of phospholipase C-β in RNA interference

Phospholipase C-β (PLCβ) enzymes are activated by G proteins in response to agents such as hormones and neurotransmitters, and have been implicated in leukemias and neurological disorders. PLCβ activity causes an increase in intracellular calcium which ultimately leads to profound changes in the cell. PLCβ localizes to three cellular compartments: the plasma membrane, the cytosol and the nucleus. Under most cell conditions, the majority of PLCβ localizes to the plasma membrane where it interacts with G proteins. In trying to determine the factors that localize PLCβ to the cytosol and nucleus, we have recently identified the binding partner, TRAX. TRAX is a nuclease and part of the machinery involved in RNA interference. This review discusses the interaction between PLCβ and TRAX, and its repercussions in G protein signaling and RNA silencing.