ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1)

ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) is a membrane protein that regulates cholesterol homeostasis by facilitating the transfer of cholesterol and phospholipids from cells to lipid-poor apolipoproteins, initiating high-density lipoprotein (HDL) formation. ABCA1's activity is essential for removing excess cholesterol from macrophages, thereby reducing inflammation and slowing atherosclerosis progression; it is regulated by cholesterol flux and genetic/epigenetic factors including miRNAs. Although "ssuACB cluster" is known as a bacterial ABC-type transporter involved in sulfate or metal import, it is not implicated in mammalian cholesterol metabolism—thus, the target as named is not correct for therapeutic or research purposes in this context.

Other names

ABCA1ATP-binding cassette subfamily A member 1

Promotion of cholesterol efflux and HDL formation; Antagonism of foam cell (macrophage) formation in vascular walls; Regulation of inflammatory signaling