Acylation stimulating protein (ASP), an adipocyte autocrine: new directions

Acylation stimulating protein (ASP) is an adipocyte-derived protein which has potent anabolic effects on human adipose tissue for Both glucose and free fatty acid (FFA) storage. Our hypothesis is that: (i) ASP is produced by adipocytes in specific response to stimuli that initiate efficient fat storage; (ii) ASP interacts with a specific adipocyte receptor triggering an intracellular signalling pathway which activates triglyceride synthesis and fat storage; and (iii) that absence (ASP knockout mouse) or excess (in normal or obese mice) f RSP will result in physiological changes of plasma fat clearance and adipose tissue metabolism. The present review focuses on advances in ASP within the last 2 years with particular emphasis on these three aspects of ASP.