DGAT1DGAT2

DGAT1DGAT2 refers to the two main isoforms of diacylglycerol acyltransferase (DGAT) enzymes. These enzymes play a critical role in the synthesis of triglycerides (triacylglycerols), which are the primary form of fat storage in most organisms. Specifically, DGAT enzymes catalyze the final step in triglyceride synthesis, esterifying a fatty acid from a fatty acyl-CoA molecule to the sn-1,2-diacylglycerol backbone.

DGAT1, the first identified isoform, is widely expressed in various tissues and is considered the primary DGAT enzyme in many cell types, particularly in adipose tissue and the liver. It is crucial for the formation of storage triglycerides and also plays a role in the synthesis of other lipids, such as phospholipids.

DGAT2 is another important isoform, often found to be more abundant in tissues with specialized lipid metabolic functions, like the liver and sebaceous glands. While both DGAT1 and DGAT2 catalyze the same reaction, they have distinct tissue expression patterns and are thought to have partially overlapping but also unique physiological roles. Research suggests that DGAT2 may be more involved in the synthesis of triglycerides destined for secretion or for specific cellular functions, rather than solely for storage.

The differential roles of DGAT1 and DGAT2 are areas of ongoing research, with implications for understanding and treating metabolic disorders such as obesity, diabetes, and fatty liver disease. Inhibitors of these enzymes have been explored as potential therapeutic agents for managing lipid metabolism and related health conditions.