Perilipin:One Important Protein in Lipolysis Regulation

Perilipin is one of the major members in PAT(perilipin, ADRP, TIP-47) protein family, whose members not only have similar sequences but also have similar gene structure. It is a highly phosphorylated adipocyte protein which locates at the surface of the lipid droplet. It serves important functions in double-regulating triacylglycerol metabolism by blocking lipase approaching droplets to reduce rates of basal lipolysis and facilitate hormonally stimulated lipolysis, then regulates the storage and release of TG. Perilipin plays a important role in lipid metabolism. Its expression and regulation may be associated with obesity and related disorders such as diabetes, atheroma and insulin-resistance. This review mainly introduces the discovery, denomination, structual characteristic, function of perilipin, regulation of hormones and transcription factor on perilipin and its interaction with related lipase. Current researches focus on the interaction of perilipin and HSL, but no research on the interaction of perilipin and ATGL.