GPAT4

GPAT4 or Glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase 4 is an enzyme that in humans is encoded by the GPAT4 gene. This enzyme is part of the glycerolipid metabolism pathway and plays a crucial role in the synthesis of triacylglycerol and phospholipid.

Function

GPAT4 is one of the four known GPAT isoenzymes that catalyze the first step of glycerolipid synthesis, the conversion of glycerol 3-phosphate (G3P) to lysophosphatidic acid (LPA). This reaction is critical for the synthesis of triacylglycerol (TAG), the main component of adipose tissue, and phospholipid, a key component of cell membranes.

Structure

The GPAT4 protein is a member of the acyltransferase family and contains a MBOAT (membrane bound O-acyltransferase) domain. The human GPAT4 gene is located on the long arm of chromosome 8 (8q21.3) and spans approximately 70 kilobases.

Clinical significance

Alterations in GPAT4 activity have been associated with various metabolic disorders, including obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes. Inhibition of GPAT4 has been proposed as a potential therapeutic strategy for these conditions.

See also

• Glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase
• Glycerolipid metabolism
• Triacylglycerol
• Phospholipid