Work

Biochemistry, physiology, and genetics of GPAT, AGPAT, and lipin enzymes in triglyceride synthesis

Year: 2009

Type: review

Abstract: Triacylglycerol (TAG) synthesis and storage in tissues such as adipose tissue and liver have important roles in metabolic homeostasis. The molecular identification of genes encoding enzymes that catalyze steps in TAG biosynthesis from glycerol 3-phosphate has revealed an unexpected number of protein isoforms of the glycerol phosphate acyltransferase (GPAT), acylglycerolphosphate acyltransferase (AGPAT), and lipin (phosphatidate phosphatase) families that appear to catalyze similar biochemical reactions. However, on the basis of available data for a few members in which genetic deficiencies in mouse and/or human have been studied, we postulate that each GPAT, AGPAT, and lipin family member likely has a specialized role that may be uncovered through careful biochemical and physiological analyses.

Source: American Journal of Physiology-Endocrinology and Metabolism

DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.90958.2008

Authors: Kazuharu Takeuchi, Karen Reue

Institution: University of California, Los Angeles

Language: English

Topic: Lipid metabolism and biosynthesis

Subfield: Biochemistry

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

Open Access status: green

Funder: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Awards: New Molecules in Triglyceride Metabolism and Adipogenesis, Molecular Genetic Approaches in Atherosclerosis Research