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Updated: Jun 21, 2026
09:54
Identification and Characterization of Protein Glycosylation using Specific Endo- and Exoglycosidases
Published on: December 26, 2011
Novel endogenous N-acyl glycines identification and characterization
Heather B Bradshaw1, Neta Rimmerman, Sherry S-J Hu
1Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA.
Vitamins and Hormones
|August 4, 2009
Summary
Researchers discovered six novel N-acyl glycines, expanding the field of lipidomics. These compounds, found throughout the body, suggest specialized functions and are regulated by fatty acid amide hydrolase.
Area of Science:
- Lipidomics
- Endogenous lipid signaling molecules
Background:
- The discovery of anandamide (N-arachidonoyl ethanolamine) spurred research into N-acyl amides.
- Lipidomics broadens understanding of molecular signaling through diverse endogenous lipids.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the biosynthesis, metabolism, and biological activity of N-acyl glycines.
- To introduce novel N-acyl glycine compounds discovered in biological tissues.
Main Methods:
- Isolation of novel lipids from biological tissues.
- Characterization of biosynthesis, metabolism, and biological activity of N-acyl glycines.
Main Results:
- Six novel N-acyl glycines were identified: N-arachidonoyl glycine, N-palmitoyl glycine, N-stearoyl glycine, N-linoleoyl glycine, N-oleoyl glycine, and N-docosahexaenoyl glycine.
- These compounds are present at varying levels in different body regions, indicating potential region-specific functions.
- At least four N-acyl glycines are regulated by the enzyme fatty acid amide hydrolase.
Conclusions:
- The N-acyl glycine family represents a significant expansion in the discovery of endogenous lipids.
- Further research into these novel lipids is expected to yield new insights into biological processes.
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