GPAT4

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD