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Structure and function of the plasma phospholipid transfer protein
L Lagrost1, C Desrumaux, D Masson
1Lipoprotein Biochemistry Laboratory, INSERM U498, Department of Medicine, Dijon, France.
Current Opinion in Lipidology
|June 30, 1998
Summary
Phospholipid transfer protein (PLTP) is part of a protein family involved in lipid metabolism and immune defense. Its ability to transfer various molecules suggests roles in both areas, sparking scientific interest.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Plasma phospholipid transfer protein (PLTP) shares structural similarities with other lipid transfer/lipopolysaccharide binding proteins.
- Members of this protein family may possess common functional properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the functional roles of PLTP beyond its structural classification.
- To explore PLTP's involvement in distinct metabolic processes and its potential dual role in lipoprotein metabolism and antimicrobial defense.
Main Methods:
- Cloning and sequencing of PLTP complementary DNA.
- Analysis of structural similarities within the lipid transfer/lipopolysaccharide binding protein family.
- Review of recent studies on PLTP's molecular transfer capabilities.
Main Results:
- PLTP belongs to the lipid transfer/lipopolysaccharide binding protein family, alongside cholesteryl ester transfer protein, bactericidal permeability increasing protein, and lipopolysaccharide-binding protein.
- PLTP facilitates the molecular transfer of phospholipids, unesterified cholesterol, alpha-tocopherol, and lipopolysaccharides.
- These transfer activities suggest a role for PLTP in both lipoprotein metabolism and antimicrobial defense.
Conclusions:
- PLTP exhibits multifaceted functions, acting as a key player in both lipid transport and immune response.
- The growing body of evidence highlights PLTP's significance, warranting further investigation into its mechanisms and therapeutic potential.