2 Nutrient sensing in animal cells and integration of nutrient and endocrine signalling pathways

Abstract

Certain nutrients are potent regulators of cell function alongside their essential role in metabolism. Endocrine and nervous systems of higher animals are often regarded as having the dominant role in regulating the responses of tissues to altered nutrient availability, but there is mounting evidence that particular nutrients (perhaps acting through specific receptor or “sensor” mechanisms) have the capability to initiate cell-signalling events and regulate gene expression independently of hormonal influences. Several dietary factors (including glucose, amino acids, and polyunsaturated fatty acids) have now been implicated as specific regulators of gene expression in animal cells. We provide an overview of current understanding of the mechanisms by which these three key groups of macronutrient contribute to regulation of animal cell function and, in addition, how they may also contribute substantially to regulation of endocrine mechanisms.