Inositol hexakisphosphate kinase 3 (IP6K3)

Inositol hexakisphosphate kinase 3 (IP6K3) is an enzyme of the inositol phosphokinase family responsible for catalyzing the phosphorylation of inositol hexakisphosphate (InsP6) to produce diphosphoinositol pentakisphosphate (5-IP7 or PP-InsP5), important signaling molecules in eukaryotic cells[4]. IP6K3 displays a polarized distribution, particularly at the leading edge of migrating cells, where it interacts with dynein intermediate chain 2 (DIC2). This interaction promotes focal adhesion turnover, cell motility, and neuronal development, including regulation of dendritic growth in neurons and synapse formation[1][2]. Deletion or dysfunction of IP6K3 is associated with defects in neuronal cell migration, resulting in brain malformations and possibly contributing to diseases such as Alzheimer's disease[1][2]. While closely related to IP6K1 and IP6K2, IP6K3 is believed to perform subtle, tissue-specific regulatory functions in cell signaling and neurobiology[2][4]. Currently, there are no well-established drugs known to target IP6K3, and no established biomarkers are used for patient selection or monitoring of IP6K3 activity in clinical settings[4]. Therapeutic modulation of IP6K3 could carry significant risks due to its involvement in critical developmental and neurological pathways.

Other names

IHPK3InsP6 kinase 3INSP6K3Inositol hexaphosphate kinase 3ATP:1D-myo-inositol-hexakisphosphate phosphotransferase

Inhibitors or modulators would act through *catalytic inhibition* of inositol pyrophosphate synthesis (such as 5-PP-InsP5 / IP7)