The Molecular Era of Lipid Droplets

Abstract

Lipid droplets (LDs) are the primary lipid-storage compartments of eukaryotes and feature a unique architecture distinct from membrane-bound organelles. Observed for over a century but initially ignored, recent cell biological, structural, and modeling studies provide new insights into how LDs are made, how they form connections with other organelles, and the roles they play in human physiology and disease. In this brief review, we highlight some key insights that helped define the LD and its roles in the cell. We also summarize new studies of molecular tethers that facilitate the LD interorganelle crosstalk and emerging technologies that provide key insights into the functions and organization of LDs.