Plays a major role in cholesterol homeostasis. Is critical for the uptake of cholesterol across the plasma membrane of the intestinal enterocyte. Is the direct molecular target of ezetimibe, a drug that inhibits cholesterol absorption. Lack of activity leads to multiple lipid transport defects. The protein may have a function in the transport of multiple lipids and their homeostasis, and may play a critical role in regulating lipid metabolism. Acts as a negative regulator of NPC2 and down-regulates its expression and secretion by inhibiting its maturation and accelerating its degradation.
Apical cell membrane ; Multi-pass membrane protein . Cell membrane ; Multi-pass membrane protein . Cytoplasmic vesicle membrane ; Multi-pass membrane protein . Subfractionation of brush border membranes from proximal enterocytes suggests considerable association with the apical membrane fraction. Exists as a predominantly cell surface membrane expressed protein (By similarity). According to PubMed:15671032, localizes in a subcellular vesicular compartment rich in RAB5. .
Widely expressed. Expressed in liver. Also expressed in small intestine, pancreas, kidney, lung, pancreas, spleen, heart, gall bladder, brain, testis, stomach and muscle.
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