Lipid droplets degradation mechanisms from microalgae to mammals, a comparative overview

Area of Science:

• Cell Biology
• Molecular Biology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Lipid droplets (LDs) are ubiquitous organelles with a neutral lipid core and a phospholipid monolayer.
• Once viewed solely for energy storage, LDs are now recognized for crucial roles in cellular processes, especially stress responses.
• Understanding LD biogenesis and degradation is key to elucidating their multifaceted functions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and compare LD degradation pathways across diverse model organisms.
• To highlight evolutionary conservation and divergence in LD catabolism.
• To explore the relationship between LD degradation mechanisms and LD functions.

Main Methods:

• Comparative analysis of literature on LD degradation.
• Examination of pathways in model organisms including yeast, mammals, plants, and microalgae.
• Focus on lipolysis and lysosomal/vacuolar degradation routes.

Main Results:

• LD degradation pathways exhibit significant evolutionary conservation.
• Distinct differences in LD degradation exist between species, tissues, and developmental stages.
• Multiple degradation routes, including lipolysis and lytic compartment internalization, are employed.

Conclusions:

• Comparative analysis reveals conserved core mechanisms but also organism-specific adaptations in LD degradation.
• Understanding these diverse pathways provides insights into the dynamic regulation and functional significance of LDs.
• Further research into LD degradation can illuminate cellular responses to stress and metabolic regulation.