Elovl7, or Elongation of Very Long Fatty Acids Protein 7, is a key enzyme in the synthesis of very long-chain fatty acids (VLCFAs). It participates in fatty acid synthesis and metabolism pathways, which are crucial for numerous biological processes including cell membrane formation, energy storage, and cell-signaling [1,2]. Genetic models, such as gene knockout models, can be valuable for studying its function.

A study on Mdr2-knockout models found that Elovl7 was significantly associated with liver fibrosis S ≥ 2, suggesting its potential involvement in the activation of hepatic stellate cells and the TGFβ signaling pathway [1]. In prostate cancer cells, knockdown of Elovl7 led to a drastic attenuation of cell growth, indicating its role in prostate cancer growth through saturated long-chain fatty acid metabolism [2]. In human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection, Elovl7 knockdown impaired HCMV-induced fatty acid elongation, particle release, and infectivity, showing its importance for HCMV replication [3].

In conclusion, Elovl7 is essential for fatty acid synthesis and metabolism. Model-based research, especially through gene knockdown or knockout experiments, has revealed its significance in diseases like liver fibrosis, prostate cancer, and in the context of viral infections such as HCMV. These findings contribute to our understanding of disease mechanisms and may offer potential therapeutic targets.