SN-GLYCEROL-3-PHOSPHATE ACYLTRANSFERASE FROM ESCHERICHIA-COLI

This review attempts to capture the history of research involved in th e understanding of lipid metabolism via investigation of the sn-glycer ol-3-phosphate acyltransferase (glycerol-P acyltransferase), the first step in the synthesis of lipids in E. coli. We will review the origin al identification of this enzymatic activity and its subsequent charac terization. The biochemical and genetic regulation of this enzyme and gene are discussed, as well as the unique structural characterization of this integral membrane protein. Future perspectives regarding the r egulatory and structural aspects of this key enzyme are discussed. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science B.V.