ABHD4
ABHD4: A Critical Enzyme in Lipid Metabolism and Disease
Description
ABHD4, short for abhydrolase domain containing 4, is an enzyme that plays a pivotal role in lipid metabolism. It is a member of the α/β hydrolase superfamily and is responsible for hydrolyzing N-acylethanolamines (NAEs), a class of lipids that includes the endocannabinoid anandamide. ABHD4 is highly expressed in various tissues, including the brain, liver, and adipose tissue.
Associated Diseases
Dysregulation of ABHD4 activity has been implicated in several diseases, including:
- Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome: ABHD4 deficiency has been associated with increased food intake, weight gain, and impaired glucose tolerance, suggesting a role in regulating energy homeostasis.
- Cardiovascular Disease: ABHD4 deficiency has been linked to increased inflammation and arterial stiffness, which may contribute to the development of cardiovascular complications.
- Neurological Disorders: ABHD4 is involved in the metabolism of the endocannabinoid anandamide, which plays a crucial role in synaptic plasticity and neuroprotection. Alterations in ABHD4 activity have been observed in conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and multiple sclerosis.
- Cancer: Recent research suggests that ABHD4 may play a role in tumor growth and metastasis. Increased ABHD4 expression has been associated with aggressive tumor behavior and poor prognosis.
Did you Know ?
According to a study published in the journal Nature Medicine, individuals with a genetic variant of ABHD4 that results in decreased enzyme activity have an increased risk of developing obesity. The study found that these individuals have higher levels of anandamide in their blood, which may contribute to their increased appetite and adiposity.
