Glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase serves as a major link between carbohydrate metabolism and lipid metabolism. Through the reduction of dihydroxyacetone phosphate into glycerol 3-phosphate, GPDH allows the prompt dephosphorylation of glycerol 3-phosphate into glycerol. It is also a major contributor of electrons to the electron transport chain in the mitochondria. GPDH is responsible for maintaining the redox potential across the inner mitochondrial membrane in glycolysis. Since glycerol is a main subunit in lipid metabolism, its abundance can easily lead to an increase in triglyceride accumulation at a cellular level. As a result, there is a tendency to form adipose tissue leading to an accumulation of fat that favors obesity. GPDH has also been found to play a role in Brugada syndrome. Mutations in the gene encoding GPD1 have been proven to cause defects in the electron transport chain. This conflict with NAD+/NADH levels in the cell is believed to contribute to defects in cardiac sodium ion channel regulation and can lead to a lethal arrythmia during infancy.
Store vial at -20° C or below prior to opening. This vial contains a relatively low volume of reagent (25 µL). To minimize loss of volume dilute 1:10 by adding 225 µL of the buffer stated above directly to the vial. Recap, mix thoroughly and briefly centrifuge to collect the volume at the bottom of the vial. Use this intermediate dilution when calculating final dilutions as recommended below. Store the vial at -20°C or below after dilution. Avoid cycles of freezing and thawing.
