Lipolysis, the breakdown of triglycerides (TGs) into fatty acids (FAs) and glycerol, involves three consecutive steps. These steps are catalyzed by different enzymes, each playing a crucial role in the process.
Steps in Lipolysis
Here is a detailed breakdown of the three steps involved in lipolysis:
| Step | Enzyme | Reaction | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Adipose Triglyceride Lipase (ATGL) | TG → Diacylglycerol (DG) | ATGL initiates lipolysis by hydrolyzing triglycerides into diacylglycerols. |
| 2 | Hormone-Sensitive Lipase (HSL) | DG → Monoacylglycerol (MG) | HSL then acts on diacylglycerols, breaking them down into monoacylglycerols. |
| 3 | Monoacylglycerol Lipase (MGL) | MG → Glycerol + Fatty Acids | Finally, MGL hydrolyzes monoacylglycerols into glycerol and free fatty acids. |
The reference confirms that the neutral hydrolysis of triglycerides to fatty acids and glycerol requires three consecutive steps involving at least three different enzymes: ATGL, HSL, and MGL. These steps ensure the complete breakdown of stored triglycerides into usable components.
In summary, lipolysis involves three distinct enzymatic steps to convert triglycerides into fatty acids and glycerol.
