Delta 4-desaturase, sphingolipid 1 (DEGS1)

Delta 4-desaturase, sphingolipid 1 (DEGS1) is an integral membrane enzyme belonging to the membrane fatty acid desaturase family. It is responsible for introducing a double bond at the Delta4 position during sphingolipid biosynthesis, specifically converting D‑erythro‑sphinganine to D‑erythro‑sphingosine. This reaction is essential for generating bioactive sphingoid bases that function as important signaling molecules in eukaryotic cells. The enzyme contains three histidine-rich motifs characteristic of this protein family and localizes primarily to the endoplasmic reticulum. Mutations or dysregulation in DEGS1 have been linked to rare neurodegenerative disorders such as hypomyelinating leukodystrophies. Its activity can be inhibited by certain natural products including curcumin and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol.

Other names

Sphingolipid delta(4)-desaturase DES1Degenerative spermatocyte homolog 1Degs1Des1

Inhibition of DEGS1 enzymatic activity by small molecules such as curcumin and THC reduces the formation of desaturated sphingolipids, potentially altering cell signaling and lipid homeostasis.