Lipogenesis is a process that converts simple sugars into fatty acids and synthesizes triacylglycerols, which are packaged into VLDL and transported throughout the body. Balancing energy intake and output is key to weight control, and insulin helps regulate lipogenesis.
Lipogenesis is a metabolic process in animals that converts simple sugars into fatty acids and synthesizes triacylglycerols through the reaction of fatty acids with glycerol. After lipogenesis, triacylglycerols are packaged into very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) and secreted by the liver, and help transport lipids and cholesterol throughout the body. The acetyl-coA molecule initiates lipogenesis in the cytoplasm of body cells. A complex of enzymes known collectively as the fatty acid synthetase completes the synthesis of fatty acids.
Carbohydrates make up the majority of the human diet, and when consumed, they must be immediately converted into energy, stored as glycogen, or converted into fat. If the carbohydrates a person eats produce energy in excess of what the body requires for its energy expenditure, lipogenesis converts the excess energy into body fat, a long-term source of energy. If the carbohydrates consumed do not produce enough energy to sustain a person’s activity level, the energy stored in the body’s fat stores is used instead.
Balancing energy intake through food and energy output through physical activity is the key to weight control. If too much energy or calories are consumed, lipogenesis will create excess body fat, eventually leading to obesity. Since fat stores contain many capillaries, tiny blood vessels, too much body fat puts a strain on the heart as it has to pump extra blood to fat stores. Obesity can result from overeating or a malfunction of the endocrine gland.
The acetyl-coA molecule initiates the lipogenesis reduction reaction in the cytoplasm of body cells. A complex of enzymes known collectively as the fatty acid synthetase completes the synthesis of fatty acids. Lipogenesis reactions also require adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the most important nucleotide in intracellular energy transfer.
The hormone insulin, produced in the pancreas, helps regulate lipogenesis. Insulin is produced in response to certain food-related stimuli, including high blood glucose levels and protein ingestion. High blood glucose levels also trigger the release of insulin into the bloodstream. Insulin helps increase a number of storage pathways in the body, including lipogenesis.
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