regulation of long-chain fatty acid import into cell

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

Any process that modulates the frequency, rate or extent of long-chain fatty acid import into a cell. [PMID:28178239]

The regulation of long-chain fatty acid import into cells is a complex process involving a coordinated interplay of multiple factors. The process begins with the interaction of fatty acids with plasma membrane-bound proteins. These proteins, often referred to as fatty acid transport proteins (FATPs) or fatty acid translocases (FATs), facilitate the initial entry of fatty acids into the cell. These proteins are responsible for the initial uptake of fatty acids across the plasma membrane, a process that can be influenced by factors such as the concentration of fatty acids in the extracellular environment, the expression levels of FATPs, and the presence of other molecules that can compete for binding sites on these proteins. Once inside the cell, fatty acids encounter a variety of intracellular proteins that play crucial roles in their further metabolism and transport. One key player is fatty acid-binding protein (FABP), a family of cytosolic proteins that bind fatty acids and prevent their aggregation. This interaction helps to ensure that fatty acids remain soluble and available for subsequent transport and metabolic processes. The next stage involves the delivery of fatty acids to the mitochondria, the powerhouse of the cell where they are processed to generate energy through β-oxidation. This process is facilitated by the carnitine palmitoyltransferase (CPT) system, which consists of two enzymes, CPT1 and CPT2. CPT1, located on the outer mitochondrial membrane, catalyzes the first step in the transfer of long-chain fatty acids from the cytosol to the mitochondrial matrix. This step involves the formation of acylcarnitine, a derivative of the fatty acid that can readily cross the mitochondrial membrane. CPT2, located on the inner mitochondrial membrane, then catalyzes the conversion of acylcarnitine back to fatty acid, allowing it to enter the mitochondrial matrix for β-oxidation. The regulation of long-chain fatty acid import into cells is crucial for maintaining cellular energy homeostasis, ensuring the proper supply of building blocks for membrane synthesis and other essential cellular processes. Dysregulation of this process can lead to a range of metabolic disorders, including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.'
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