Glycine N-acyltransferase (GLYAT)

Glycine N-acyltransferase (GLYAT) is a mitochondrial enzyme responsible for conjugating acyl groups from acyl-CoA thioesters to glycine, forming N-acylglycines such as hippuric acid for excretion[1][3][5]. It plays a crucial role in phase II detoxification, metabolizing both xenobiotic (e.g., benzoic acid, salicylic acid) and endogenous compounds, thereby reducing their toxicity and facilitating their urinary clearance[3][4][10]. GLYAT is widely expressed in liver and kidney, with polymorphisms influencing activity and inter-individual susceptibility to toxin-induced disease. No defects in GLYAT are yet described as a monogenic disorder, but its deficiency or reduced activity may contribute to a buildup of toxic acyl-CoA intermediates and altered drug and metabolite handling[4][10].

Other names

acyl-CoA:glycine N-acyltransferaseglycine acyltransferaseglycine-N-acylaseACGNAT

Catalyzes transfer of acyl groups from acyl-CoA to glycine, facilitating conjugation and urinary excretion of toxic carboxylic acids[3][5]