Regulation of microsomal triglyceride transfer protein

Microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTP) facilitates the transport of dietary and endogenous fat by the intestine and liver by assisting in the assembly and secretion of triglyceride-rich apolipoprotein B-containing lipoproteins. Higher concentrations of apolipoprotein B lipoproteins predispose individuals to various cardiovascular and metabolic diseases such as atherosclerosis, diabetes, obesity and the metabolic syndrome. These can potentially be avoided by reducing MTP activity. In this article, we discuss regulation of MTP during development, cellular differentiation and diurnal variation. Furthermore, we focus on the regulation of MTP that occurs at transcriptional, post-transcriptional and post-translational levels. Transcriptional regulation of MTP depends on a few highly conserved cis-elements in the promoter. Several transcription factors that bind to these elements and either increase or decrease MTP expression have been identified. Additionally, MTP is regulated by macronutrients, hormones and other factors. This article will address the many ways in which MTP is regulated and advance the idea that reducing MTP levels, rather than its inhibition, might be an option to lower plasma lipids.