Adipocyte enhancer-binding protein 1 (AEBP1)

Adipocyte enhancer-binding protein 1 (AEBP1) is a ubiquitously expressed, multifunctional protein with carboxypeptidase-like and transcriptional repressor activities. AEBP1 is encoded by the AEBP1 gene and produces two major isoforms: a nuclear/cytosolic transcriptional repressor (AEBP1) and an extracellular matrix-associated protein (aortic carboxypeptidase-like protein, ACLP). In the nucleus, AEBP1 regulates gene expression by binding to enhancer regions and suppresses transcription of key regulators of adipogenesis and inflammation (e.g., aP2, PPARγ1, LXRα). It modulates macrophage cholesterol homeostasis, promotes foam cell formation, and enhances inflammatory responses by facilitating NF-κB pathway activation via direct interaction with IκBα. The ACLP isoform is critical for collagen organization and tissue integrity, with genetic defects in AEBP1 causing Ehlers-Danlos-like syndrome due to impaired connective tissue matrix. AEBP1 also acts as an oncogene in several cancers, promotes fibrosis, and is tightly regulated during cell differentiation, wound healing, and development. Targeting AEBP1 or its downstream pathways offers potential therapeutic strategies in metabolic, inflammatory, fibrotic, and neoplastic diseases, although safety concerns regarding tissue remodeling and immune function remain significant.

Other names

AE-binding protein 1Aortic carboxypeptidase-like proteinACLPAdipocyte enhancer binding protein 1

Drugs targeting downstream AEBP1-regulated pathways (e.g., NF-κB inhibitors, PPARγ agonists) might modulate AEBP1 effects indirectly. Null for direct targeting mechanisms; all known actions are via transcriptional regulation, protein-protein interactions, or extracellular matrix modulation.