The N-terminal region of comparative gene identification-58 (CGI-58) is important for lipid droplet binding and activation of adipose triglyceride lipase.

ABSTRACT: In mammals, excess energy is stored in the form of triacylglycerol primarily in lipid droplets of white adipose tissue. The first step of lipolysis (i.e. the mobilization of fat stores) is catalyzed by adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL). The enzymatic activity of ATGL is strongly enhanced by CGI-58 (comparative gene identification-58), and the loss of either ATGL or CGI-58 function causes systemic triglyceride accumulation in humans and mice. However, the mechanism by which CGI-58 stimulates ATGL activity is unknown. To gain insight into CGI-58 function using structural features of the protein, we generated a three-dimensional homology model based on sequence similarity with other proteins. Interestingly, the model of CGI-58 revealed that the N terminus forms an extension of the otherwise

SUBMITTER: Gruber A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2852968 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature