Abhydrolase domain-containing protein 18 (ABHD18)

Abhydrolase domain-containing protein 18 (ABHD18) is an enzyme belonging to the alpha/beta hydrolase fold superfamily, a diverse group of proteins involved in lipid metabolism and cellular signaling (UniProt Q6PCB6). While ABHD18 is currently classified as an orphan hydrolase with poorly defined endogenous substrates, emerging research identifies it as a novel regulator of adipogenesis and lipid droplet dynamics (PMID: 31434678). In clinical oncology, ABHD18 mRNA and protein levels have been investigated as potential prognostic biomarkers, particularly in lung adenocarcinoma, where its expression correlates with tumor progression and patient outcomes (PMID: 33458145). Although no specific small-molecule inhibitors have reached clinical development, ABHD18 represents a potential therapeutic target for metabolic diseases and cancer. Experimental modulation of the target often focuses on the mRNA transcript to study the downstream effects of protein knockdown on cellular homeostasis. Understanding the structural biology of its catalytic site remains a primary challenge for the development of selective pharmacological modulators.

Other names

Alpha/beta hydrolase domain-containing protein 18ABHD18 mRNAABHD18

Inhibition of serine hydrolase activity or transcript degradation via RNA-targeted therapies (e.g., siRNA or antisense oligonucleotides).