What is the Origin of Lipidation?

The concept is fundamental to cell biology and biochemistry, recognized as a vital mechanism by which the cell controls the spatial and temporal activity of signaling proteins. Different types of lipidation, including N-myristoylation and S-palmitoylation, were discovered through the study of membrane-associated proteins and their role in signal transduction cascades.

What is the Mechanism of Lipidation?

The attached lipid moiety serves to direct the protein to its correct subcellular compartment, typically the inner leaflet of the plasma membrane, where it can interact with other membrane-bound signaling partners. For instance, lipidation is necessary for the activation of key hormonal signaling components like G-proteins, allowing them to participate in transmitting extracellular signals across the cell membrane. This reversible or irreversible anchoring mechanism is crucial for regulating cell growth, differentiation, and the immune response.

Lipidation ∞ Area

Lipidation

Meaning

Lipidation is a critical type of post-translational modification (PTM) where a lipid molecule, such as a fatty acid or isoprenoid group, is covalently attached to a specific amino acid residue of a target protein. This modification is essential for increasing the protein’s hydrophobicity, which enables its stable association with cellular membranes and lipid bilayers. It acts as a necessary molecular anchor for proper protein localization and function within the cell.