Structure

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  Phorbol Myristate Acetate (PMA) is also known as 12-O-Tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA). This compound is a diester (a chemical compound containing two functional groups) of a phorbol, which is a plant-derived organic compound.
  
  

Function

• Phorbols in general are biologically important as activators of Protein Kinase C, which is an enzyme that controls the function of other proteins. This property also gives phorbols the capacity to act as tumor promoters, which means that it enhances the cancer-inducing effects of other substances.
  
  

Source

• PMA is derived from the oil of the seeds of the Croton plant, scientifically known as Croton tiglium. This shrub, which is native to Southeast Asia, has been used by herbalists and homeopaths for years. The plant causes a skin rash similar to poison ivy, which has led scientists to research the plant and isolate the compounds that may be biologically active.
  
  

Research

• PMA is used in biomedical research in various models of carcinogenesis which is the mutation of normal cells. Laboratory research has revealed the following about PMA:
  It can mimic the process of phagocytosis, which is like "cell eating" where cells engulf microorganisms and other debris. This is important in the defense against infection.
  PMA may alter the membrane of a cell, increasing its permeability.
  PMA may stimulate oxygen formation in cells.
  PMA activates protein kinase C, which in turn can induce antibody particle formation.
  
  

Possible Treatment Uses

• Research of PMA is ongoing. The results of studies conducted as of 2009 indicate that PMA may play an important role in treating a variety of conditions including Leukemia, HIV, and prostate cancer. These early studies are an important step that could lead to the testing of this compound in human clinical trials. With so many people world-wide affected by cancer, a new biological treatment would be a welcome relief.