The invention relates to a novel lipid kinase which is part of the PI3
Kinase family. PI3 Kinases catalyze the addition of phosphate to inositol
generating inositol mono, di and triphosphate. Inositol phosphates have
been implicated in regulating intracellular signaling cascades resulting
in alternations in gene expression which, amongst other effects, can
result in cytoskeletal remodeling and modulation of cellular motility.
More particularly the invention relates to a novel human PI3 Kinase,
p110.DELTA. which interacts with p85, has a broad phosphinositide
specificity and is sensitive to the same kinase inhibitors as PI3 Kinase
p110A. However, in contrast to previously identified PI3 Kinases which
show a ubiquitous pattern of expression, p110.DELTA. is selectively
expressed in leucocytes. Importantly, p110.DELTA. shows enhanced
expression in most melanomas tested and therefore may play a crucial role
in regulating the metastatic property exhibited by melanomas. The
identification of agents that enhance or reduce p110.DELTA. activity may
therefore prevent cancer metastatis.