MAGL

MAGL stands for monoacylglycerol lipase, an enzyme that hydrolyzes monoacylglycerols into glycerol and free fatty acids. It is encoded by the MGLL gene in humans and belongs to the serine hydrolase family of enzymes. The enzyme is widely studied for its role in lipid metabolism and endocannabinoid signaling.

The primary catalytic function of MAGL is the hydrolysis of monoacylglycerols, including the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). By breaking down 2-AG, MAGL modulates endocannabinoid signaling, influencing processes such as synaptic transmission, pain perception, mood, and inflammation. The enzyme uses a catalytic triad typical of serine hydrolases and operates within cellular membranes and lipid droplets where monoacylglycerols are generated and stored.

MAGL is expressed in various tissues, with notable presence in the brain, adipose tissue, liver, and other organs. In the central nervous system, MAGL helps regulate endocannabinoid tone and lipid homeostasis, linking metabolism to neural signaling. Changes in MAGL activity have been associated with metabolic conditions, inflammatory responses, and neurodegenerative processes, making the enzyme a focal point for research into related disorders.

In research and drug development, selective MAGL inhibitors have been used to elevate 2-AG levels, producing anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects in animal models. These inhibitors are tools for studying endocannabinoid biology and hold potential as therapeutic strategies for pain, neurodegenerative diseases, and inflammatory conditions. However, long-term MAGL inhibition can lead to compensatory changes in cannabinoid signaling and other metabolic pathways, underscoring the need for further study before clinical application.

Note: MAGL should not be confused with Major League Gaming, an esports organization sometimes abbreviated as MAGL.