Microsomal triglyceride transfer protein in plasma and cellular lipid metabolism

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review summarizes recent advances about the role of microsomal triglyceride transfer protein in plasma and tissue lipid homeostasis. RECENT FINDINGS: Microsomal triglyceride transfer protein emerged as a phospholipid transfer protein and acquired triacylglycerol transfer activity during evolution from invertebrates to vertebrates. These activities are proposed to participate in 'nucleation' and 'desorption' steps during the biosynthesis of primordial apoB-containing lipoproteins. Microsomal triglyceride transfer protein also transfers phospholipids to the glycolipid antigen presentation molecule CD1d. Under physiologic conditions, plasma apoB-containing lipoproteins and microsomal triglyceride transfer protein expression exhibit diurnal variations synchronized by food and light. Microsomal triglyceride transfer protein is regulated at the transcriptional level. HNF4alpha is critical for its transcription. Other transcription factors along with coactivators and corepressors modulate microsomal triglyceride transfer protein expression. Reductions in microsomal triglyceride transfer protein mRNA and activity are related to steatosis in HCV-3 infected patients. CCl4 induces steatosis by enhancing proteasomal degradation of microsomal triglyceride transfer protein and can be partially avoided by inhibiting this degradation. Chemical antagonists cause hepatosteatosis, but this was not seen in the absence of fatty acid binding protein. SUMMARY: Microsomal triglyceride transfer protein is a target to lower plasma lipids and to reduce inflammation in certain immune disorders. More knowledge is required, however, regarding its regulation and its role in the biosynthesis of apoB-containing lipoproteins and CD1d.