Stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD)

Stearoyl-CoA desaturase is an iron-containing endoplasmic reticulum enzyme that catalyzes the rate-limiting step in the synthesis of monounsaturated fatty acids. It introduces a cis-double bond at the Δ9 position of saturated fatty acids (primarily palmitic and stearic acid) to form monounsaturated fatty acids (palmitoleic and oleic acid, respectively). The enzyme requires NAD(P)H, cytochrome b5 reductase, cytochrome b5, and molecular oxygen for its activity. SCD plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance between saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, which affects membrane fluidity and various cellular functions. It has emerged as a potential therapeutic target, particularly in cancer treatment.

Other names

Delta-9 desaturaseStearoyl-CoA 9-desaturaseFatty acid desaturase

Inhibition of monounsaturated fatty acid synthesis, Induction of apoptosis, Suppression of cell proliferation