PKC is activated by diacylglycerol which in turn phosphorylates a range of cellular proteins. PKC also serves as the receptor for phorbol esters, a class of tumor promoters. Involved in neuropeptide secretion in motor axons. Likely to act via the extracellular signal-regulated kinase/mitogen-activated protein kinase (ERK/MAPK) pathway in the signaling response to various sensory neurons; temperature, odor, taste, and osmolality. Its role in regulation differs depending on the neuron in which it is acting; thermosensation in AFD neurons, osmolality in ASH neurons, olfactory perception in AWA and AWC neurons. Promotes dauer formation mediated by the insulin/IGF pathway. Required for resistance to antimitotic toxins. ATP + L-seryl-[protein] = ADP + H(+) + O-phospho-L-seryl-[protein] ATP + L-threonyl-[protein] = ADP + H(+) + O-phospho-L-threonyl-[protein] Associated with membranes and the cytoskeleton. Expressed selectively in neurons that receive, transmit and process environmental signals. Attenuated response to nose touch stimulation. Defects in salt attraction. Disrupted chemotaxis. Hyperactivation of AFD thermosensory neurons but inactivation of the ASH neurons. Reduced dauer formation. Protection from hemiasterlin toxicity by carbonyl cyanide p-[trifluoromethoxy]-phenyl-hydrazone (FCCP) greatly reduced. Reduced neuropeptide secretion. Belongs to the protein kinase superfamily. AGC Ser/Thr protein kinase family. PKC subfamily.