Novel Insights into G0S2 as a Central Regulator of Lipid Metabolism and Its Implications for Meat Quality

The increasing demand for premium-quality meat has intensified interest in the molecular regulators that govern lipid deposition and sensory quality. Lipid metabolism, encompassing synthesis, oxidation, and storage, represents a key biological process affecting intramuscular fat content, tenderness, and flavor. G0/G1 Switch Gene 2 (G0S2) is widely recognized as an endogenous, non-competitive inhibitor of adipose triglyceride lipase. By inhibiting this key lipase, G0S2 restrains triglyceride hydrolysis and helps preserve lipid storage. Recent studies further suggest that G0S2 participates in adipocyte differentiation, mitochondrial regulation, apoptosis, and inflammatory signaling. Together, these findings indicate that G0S2 functions not only in lipolysis control but also as a multifunctional regulator of energy metabolism and cellular homeostasis. Despite its pleiotropic roles, which position G0S2 as a key integrator of lipid metabolism and cellular signaling networks, the specific roles and regulatory mechanisms by which G0S2 influences lipid metabolism and meat quality remain incompletely understood. This review summarized recent advances in G0S2-mediated lipid metabolism with emphasis on its regulatory network in livestock species. The physiological mechanisms by which G0S2 modulated lipolysis, lipid deposition, and intramuscular adipogenesis were discussed, along with nutritional, hormonal, and epigenetic factors controlling its expression. Moreover, its functional implications for meat quality improvement, marbling formation, and feed efficiency were highlighted. Understanding the molecular and regulatory features of G0S2 provided a foundation for developing genetic and nutritional strategies to optimize lipid utilization and enhance meat quality in modern animal production systems.