CIDEC

CIDEC, or cell death-inducing DFF45-like effector C, is a protein encoded by the CIDEC gene in humans. It is a member of the CIDE family of proteins and is widely recognized in mice as FSP27 (fat-specific protein 27). In humans, CIDEC is primarily expressed in adipose tissue and plays a role in regulating lipid storage.

The main function of CIDEC is associated with lipid droplets in adipocytes. It localizes to the surface of lipid droplets and promotes their fusion and enlargement, supporting triglyceride storage. This activity helps coordinate energy storage in adipose tissue and can influence lipolytic access to stored lipids. CIDEC is thought to interact with other lipid droplet–associated proteins, such as perilipins, in promoting droplet dynamics.

Expression and regulation: CIDEC expression is high in adipose tissue and increases during adipocyte differentiation. Its transcription is regulated by adipogenic factors, including PPARγ, and it can respond to nutritional status and metabolic signals that affect fat storage.

Clinical significance: Research has linked altered CIDEC expression and genetic variants with metabolic conditions such as obesity, insulin resistance, and hepatic steatosis in some human studies. However, findings vary across populations, and the causal role of CIDEC in these diseases remains an area of active inquiry.

Research models and evolution: CIDEC is conserved across mammals, and animal models with modified CIDEC expression show changes in adipocyte morphology and lipid metabolism, underscoring its role in lipid droplet biology. CIDEC is part of the broader CIDE protein family that includes related factors involved in lipid handling and cell death-related pathways.