Target intelligence / Profile preview

Perilipin-2 (PLIN2)

Target
PLIN2
Molecular classification
Other (Lipid droplet-associated protein; member of the PAT [Perilipin/ADRP/TIP47] family)
01

Overview

**Perilipin-2 (PLIN2)** is a constitutively expressed, lipid droplet–associated protein and a member of the PAT family (Perilipin/ADRP/TIP47) that serves as a crucial regulator of intracellular lipid droplet formation, stability, and lipolysis[1][2][4]. It is widely present in hepatocytes, adipocytes, and macrophages, among other cell types, and facilitates triglyceride and cholesterol ester storage by binding directly to lipid droplets and controlling their turnover[2][3]. PLIN2 plays roles in lipid uptake, high-density lipoprotein (HDL)–mediated cholesterol uptake/efflux, and regulation of cellular lipid and lipoprotein profiles. Genetic variation in PLIN2 can affect systemic lipid metabolism and is implicated in metabolic diseases and certain cancers. While not a classical drug target like a receptor or enzyme, PLIN2 is nonetheless a focus of active investigation for its biomarker potential and as a candidate for therapeutically modifying lipid handling in disease states[2][4].

Other names
Adipose differentiation-related proteinADFPADRPAdipophilin
02

Mechanism of action

Not applicable; no approved drugs, but theoretical mechanisms would involve modulation of lipid droplet biogenesis, stability, or turnover

03

Biological functions

Lipid droplet formationLipid storage regulationLipolysis regulationIntracellular triglyceride accumulationMediation of lipid droplet–plasma membrane interactions
04

Disease associations

ObesityMetabolic syndromeNon-alcoholic fatty liver diseaseAtherosclerosisCancer (e.g., some tumor cell types express high levels of PLIN2)
05

Safety considerations

Modulation could disrupt essential lipid homeostasis, potentially affecting energy balance, liver health, and adipose functionUnknown long-term effects of therapeutically targeting PLIN2
06

Interacting drugs

None well-established; PLIN2 is not currently targeted by approved drugs, but some small molecules and tool compounds have been reported in research.
07

Biomarkers

PLIN2 tissue and serum levels have been studied as biomarkers for: Non-alcoholic fatty liver diseaseSome cancers (diagnostic or prognostic value)Atherosclerotic plaque macrophagesCertain lipid storage disorders

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