[Advances in the function and mechanisms of stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 in metabolic diseases]

Abstract

Metabolic diseases characterized by an imbalance in energy homeostasis represent a significant global health challenge. Individuals with metabolic diseases often suffer from complications related to disorders in lipid metabolism, such as obesity and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Understanding core genes involved in lipid metabolism can advance strategies for the prevention and treatment of these conditions. Stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 (SCD1) is a key enzyme in lipid metabolism that converts saturated fatty acids into monounsaturated fatty acids. SCD1 plays a crucial regulatory role in numerous physiological and pathological processes, including energy homeostasis, glycolipid metabolism, autophagy, and inflammation. Abnormal transcription and epigenetic activation of Scd1 contribute to abnormal lipid accumulation by regulating multiple signaling axes, thereby promoting the development of obesity, NAFLD, diabetes, and cancer. This review comprehensively summarizes the key role of SCD1 as a metabolic hub gene in various (patho)physiological contexts. Further it explores potential translational avenues, focusing on the development of novel SCD1 inhibitors across interdisciplinary fields, aiming to provide new insights and approaches for targeting SCD1 in the prevention and treatment of metabolic diseases.