Related Experiment Videos
Mediating lipid biosynthesis: implications for cardiovascular disease
1Department of Medicine and Developmental & Molecular Biology, Diabetes Research and Training Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1301 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY 10461.
Abstract:
Dysregulation of lipid homeostasis is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Thus, understanding the molecular mechanisms of maintaining lipid homeostasis may aid the discovery of novel targets for treating CVD. MED15 and cyclin-dependent kinase-8 (CDK8) are subunits of the Mediator complex, which contains multiple proteins and functions as a transcriptional cofactor. Mediator can positively or negatively regulate gene expression, depending on the contexts and its associated transcription factors. Recent studies revealed a critical role of MED15 and CDK8 in regulating sterol regulatory element-binding protein (SREBP) transcription factors, which are master activators for genes that are responsible for lipid biosynthesis. Here, we review the function of MED15 and CDK8 in regulating lipid homeostasis and discuss the implications for CVD.
Related Concept Videos
Atherosclerosis III: Management
Overview of Lipid Metabolism
Lipolysis: The Breakdown of Lipids:
Lipolysis is the process of breaking down lipids, particularly triglycerides, into glycerol and fatty acids. This process typically occurs in the adipose tissue and is triggered by various hormones, including glucagon and...
Lipid-derived Compounds in the Human Body
Fat-soluble Vitamins
Fat-soluble vitamins, including vitamins A, D, E, and K, are required in minimal quantities, but their deficiencies can lead to severely abnormal physiological conditions. For example, vitamin A deficiency can cause night blindness, dry skin, delayed...
Cholesterol: Significance and Regulation
Considering cholesterol and...
Coronary Artery Disease I: Introduction
Blood Studies for Cardiovascular System III: Serum Lipid Profile
Serum lipids are fats and fatty substances in the blood and are crucial for various bodily functions, including energy storage, cellular structure, and hormone production. Serum lipids consist of cholesterol, triglycerides, and phospholipids.
Cholesterol is a soft, fat-like substance found in all body cells. It is crucial for producing hormones, vitamin D, and substances that aid...