ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 and HDL metabolism: effects of fatty acids

Ample evidence indicates that dietary fatty acids alter the plasma levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). However, the mechanisms underlying the effects of fatty acids still remain elusive. Recent advances in our understanding of ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) function and regulation have provided a valuable insight into the mechanisms by which fatty acids may affect plasma HDL-C levels. ABCA1 mediates the assembly of phospholipids and free cholesterol with apolipoprotein A-I, which is a critical step for HDL biogenesis. Studies have shown that unsaturated fatty acids, but not saturated fatty acids, repress the expression of ABCA1 in vitro. Although information on mechanisms for the fatty-acid-mediated regulation of ABCA1 expression is still limited and controversial, recent evidence suggests that unsaturated fatty acids inhibit the expression of ABCA1 at the transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels. The transcriptional repression of ABCA1 expression by unsaturated fatty acids is likely liver X receptor dependent. Evidence also suggests that histone deacetylation may play a role in the repression. Posttranscriptionally, unsaturated fatty acids may facilitate ABCA1 protein degradation, which may involve phosphorylation of ABCA1 by protein kinases. Further studies are warranted to better understand the role of dietary fatty acids in HDL metabolism and their effects on cardiovascular health.