Fig. 5.
Hypothetical model for intracellular roles of DGAT1 and DGAT2. On the basis of the available evidence, we speculate that DGAT2 function is closely linked to endogenous FA synthesis and esterification, whereas DGAT1 may be involved in the recycling of hydrolyzed triacylglycerols by reesterifying the FAs. DGAT1 may also play an important role in protecting cells from high concentrations of FAs. The model suggests that DGAT2 is most active with low substrate concentrations (e.g., with de novo FA synthesis) and that DGAT1 is most active with high substrate concentrations, such as with exogenous FA or high levels of lipolysis. FAs need to be activated by forming FA CoA (not shown). HSL, hormone-sensitive lipase; ATGL, adipose-tissue triglyceride lipase; MGL, monoacylglycerol lipase. Permission to use Fig. 5 granted by Elsevier Ltd.