triglyceride biosynthetic process

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The chemical reactions and pathways resulting in the formation of a triglyceride, any triester of glycerol. [ISBN:0198506732]

The triglyceride biosynthetic process is a complex pathway that involves the synthesis of triglycerides, which are the primary form of fat storage in the body. Triglycerides are composed of three fatty acids esterified to a glycerol molecule. The synthesis of triglycerides occurs primarily in the liver and adipose tissue.

The process begins with the activation of fatty acids, which are converted to fatty acyl-CoAs. These activated fatty acids then enter the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), where they are incorporated into triglycerides. The synthesis of triglycerides involves two key enzymes: glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase (GPAT) and diacylglycerol acyltransferase (DGAT).

GPAT catalyzes the first step in the synthesis of triglycerides, the attachment of a fatty acid to glycerol-3-phosphate. This reaction forms lysophosphatidic acid (LPA). The second step involves the attachment of a second fatty acid to LPA, forming phosphatidic acid (PA). PA is then dephosphorylated by a phosphatase to form diacylglycerol (DAG).

DGAT then catalyzes the final step in the synthesis of triglycerides, the attachment of a third fatty acid to DAG. The resulting triglyceride molecule can then be packaged into very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) particles in the liver or stored in adipose tissue.

The regulation of triglyceride biosynthesis is complex and involves a variety of factors, including dietary intake, hormonal signals, and cellular energy status. For example, insulin promotes the synthesis of triglycerides, while glucagon and epinephrine inhibit the process.

Triglyceride biosynthesis is essential for energy storage and the regulation of lipid metabolism. Dysregulation of this pathway can lead to a number of health problems, including obesity, hyperlipidemia, and cardiovascular disease.'
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Proteins (6)

Compounds (11)