Human NPC1L1 Full-Length Bioactive Membrane Protein

Protein function: Plays a major role in cholesterol homeostasis (PubMed:22095670). Critical for the uptake of cholesterol across the plasma membrane of the intestinal enterocyte (PubMed:22095670). Involved in plant sterol absorption, it transports sitosterol, although at lower rates than cholesterol. Is the direct molecular target of ezetimibe, a drug that inhibits cholesterol absorption and is approved for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia (PubMed:15928087). May have a function in the transport of multiple lipids and their homeostasis, thereby influencing lipid metabolism regulation (PubMed:15671032). May be involved in caveolin trafficking from the plasma membrane. In addition, acts as a negative regulator of NPC2 and down-regulates its expression and secretion by inhibiting its maturation and accelerating its degradation (PubMed:22095670). [The UniProt Consortium]