Fatty acid desaturase 2 (FADS2)

Fatty acid desaturase 2 (FADS2) is a critical enzyme that introduces double bonds at specific sites in fatty acid chains to initiate the conversion of dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids into physiologically crucial long-chain PUFAs, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and arachidonic acid (AA)[1][3][5][7]. These lipids serve as precursors for bioactive mediators and are essential components of cellular membranes, affecting signal transduction, energy metabolism, and hormone production[1][5]. FADS2's role is particularly prominent in the adrenal gland and liver and is dynamically regulated in cancer where it contributes to metabolic adaptation, drug resistance, and tumor progression[2][4][6]. Inhibition of FADS2 can disrupt tumor growth, mitochondrial function, and cellular energy supply, rendering it a promising but complex therapeutic target[2][5][6]. Genetic variants in FADS2 have been linked to differences in cognitive development and disease susceptibility, highlighting its importance in both health and pathology[1][7].

Other names

Acyl-CoA 6-desaturaseDelta-6-desaturaseDelta(6) desaturaseD6DFADSD6DES6TU13SLL0262delta-6 fatty acid desaturaselinoleoyl-CoA desaturase

Inhibition of PUFA biosynthesis and reduction of cellular lipid unsaturation Disruption of mitochondrial function and steroidogenesis in steroidogenic tissues Enhanced ER stress and cell death when combined with SCD1 inhibitors Synergistic antitumor effects with epigenetic modifiers (EZH2 inhibitors) through disruption of both metabolic and transcriptional programs