Phosphatidylethanolamine N-methyltransferase: from Functions to Diseases

Locating on endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria associated membrane, Phosphatidviethan olamine N-methyltransferase (PEMT), catalyzes phosphatidylethanolamine methylation to phosphatidylcholine. As the only endogenous pathway for choline biosynthesis in mammals, the dysregulation of PEMT can lead to i mbalance of phospholipid metabolism. Dysregulation of phospholipid metabolism in the liver or heart can lead to deposition of toxic lipid species that adversely result in dysfunction of hepatocyte/cardiomy ocyte. Studies hay e shown that PEMT-/- mice increased susceptibility of diet-induced fatty liver and steatohepatitis. However, kno ckout of PEMT protects against diet-induced atherosclerosis, diet-induced obesity, and insulin resistance. Thus, novel insights to the function of PEMT in various organs should be summarized. Here, we reviewed the structu ral and functional properties of PEMT, highlighting its role in the pathogenesis of obesity, fiver diseases, cardio v ascular diseases, and other conditions.

Automated summary

Phosphatidyl Ethanolamine Methyltransferase (PEMT), located on the endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria associated membrane, regulates phospholipid metabolism. Dysregulation of PEMT is associated with the development of diseases such as fatty liver and cardiovascular diseases.