Location, location: protein trafficking and lipolysis in adipocytes

Trends Endocrinol Metab. 2008 Jan;19(1):3-9. doi: 10.1016/j.tem.2007.10.006. Epub 2007 Dec 26.

Abstract

The storage and mobilization of lipid are central functions of fat cells. Recent proteomic studies suggest that intracellular triglyceride storage droplets are dynamic organelles, and that the signaling events underlying lipid mobilization alter protein trafficking to a specialized subset of these droplets. Here we review recent research that has identified new players in hormone-stimulated lipolysis, and the role of perilipin A, a lipid droplet scaffold protein, in organizing and directing lipolytic protein trafficking.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adipocytes / metabolism*
  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Lipolysis / physiology*
  • Models, Biological
  • Protein Binding
  • Protein Transport / physiology
  • Signal Transduction / physiology