Perilipin-4

Perilipin-4 (also known as PLIN4) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the PLIN4 gene. It is a member of the perilipin family, which is a group of proteins that associate with the surface of lipid droplets to regulate lipolysis.

Function

Perilipin-4 is a lipid droplet coat protein that regulates the storage and breakdown of triglycerides. It is primarily expressed in adipose tissue, where it plays a crucial role in lipid metabolism. The protein acts as a barrier to lipolysis, preventing the access of hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) and adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL) to the lipid droplet.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the PLIN4 gene have been associated with familial combined hyperlipidemia, a condition characterized by elevated levels of cholesterol and/or triglycerides in the blood. This can increase the risk of atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease.

Research

Research into the function and regulation of Perilipin-4 is ongoing. Understanding the role of this protein in lipid metabolism could have implications for the treatment of metabolic disorders such as obesity and type 2 diabetes.

See also

• Perilipin
• Lipid droplet
• Lipolysis
• Adipose tissue
• Hyperlipidemia

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