Acyltransferase

Acyltransferase is a general term for a class of enzymes that catalyze the transfer of acyl groups from acyl donors (commonly acyl-CoA) to acceptor molecules, such as alcohols, amines, or other biomolecules. This group encompasses diverse families essential for lipid biosynthesis (e.g., triglycerides, phospholipids, cholesterol esters), protein acylation, and the regulation of many metabolic and signaling pathways. Specific members include Glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferases, acyl-CoA:cholesterol acyltransferases (ACAT/SOAT), and toxin-activating acyltransferases among others. Each individual acyltransferase has unique substrate specificities, tissue distributions, and disease implications.

Other names

Acyl group transferaseAcyl-transfer enzymeAcyl-CoA:acyltransferaseTransferase enzymes (acyl group-specific)

Inhibition of substrate acylation (for ACAT inhibitors); Disruption of lipid biosynthesis (for specific family members, e.g., GPAT/AGPAT inhibitors)