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Updated: Jun 4, 2026
09:41
Measuring the Rate of Lipolysis in Ex Vivo Murine Adipose Tissue and Primary Preadipocytes Differentiated In Vitro
Published on: March 17, 2023
Acylation stimulating protein: a female lipogenic factor?
J Saleh1, N Al-Wardy, H Farhan
1Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Sultan Qaboos University, P.O. Box 35, 123 Muscat, Oman. jumana@squ.edu.om
Summary
Acylation stimulating protein (ASP) influences fat storage, particularly subcutaneous fat in females. ASP levels correlate with metabolic conditions and hormonal changes, impacting fat distribution.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Metabolic Syndrome
- Adipose Tissue Biology
Background:
- Acylation stimulating protein (ASP) is a lipogenic factor produced by adipocytes.
- Plasma ASP levels are altered in obesity, type II diabetes, and dyslipidemia.
- ASP is implicated in subcutaneous fat storage, especially in females.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of ASP in lipogenesis and fat distribution.
- To explore the association between ASP, sex hormones, and metabolic health.
- To highlight ASP's contribution to female-typical subcutaneous fat storage.
Main Methods:
- In vitro studies on adipocytes and plasma membranes.
- In vivo studies in ASP-deficient mice.
- Analysis of human studies on ASP levels and triglyceride clearance.
Main Results:
- ASP stimulates triglyceride synthesis more in subcutaneous than omental adipocytes.
- ASP receptor binding is higher in female and subcutaneous adipose tissue.
- ASP enhances postprandial triglyceride clearance more efficiently in females.
- ASP-deficient mice show resistance to weight gain and reduced fat mass, particularly in females.
- A link between progesterone and ASP variations in females has been observed.
Conclusions:
- ASP plays a significant role in lipogenesis and subcutaneous fat accumulation.
- Sex-specific differences in ASP function contribute to fat distribution patterns.
- Hormonal factors, like progesterone, may modulate ASP activity in females.
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