Perilipin: Proteins and Enzymes

The perilipin family includes lipid droplet-associated protein (perilipin) and adipose differentiation-related protein (adipophilin). Perilipin is a modulator of both adipocyte lipid metabolism and adipophilinis involved in the development and maintenance of adipose tissue. Perilipin acts as a protective coating from the body's natural lipases--such as hormone-sensitive lipase--that break triglycerides into glycerol and free fatty acids for use in metabolism, a process called lipolysis. It is also an important regulator of lipid storage and its expression is elevated in obese animals and humans.