Target intelligence / Profile preview

Cholesin (CHLSN)

Target
CHLSN
Molecular classification
Hormone, Secreted peptide, Protein-coding gene
01

Overview

Cholesin is a hormone produced by the intestine in response to dietary cholesterol absorption. Its main function is to inhibit cholesterol synthesis in the liver, helping maintain cholesterol homeostasis[3][4][5]. Cholesin exerts its effect by binding to the GPR146 receptor, serving as a key regulator of plasma cholesterol in mammals. The hormone is a product of the *CHLSN* gene (also known as C7orf50). Cholesin’s activity includes suppressing VLDL secretion from hepatocytes, and its expression is upregulated during high-cholesterol diets. As a newly described molecule, it is considered a promising therapeutic target for atherosclerosis and hypercholesterolemia, and it may serve as a biomarker for cholesterol absorption and homeostasis[3][4][5]. If more granular molecular descriptors (sequence, structure, motifs) are needed, C7orf50 encodes a small (22 kDa), basic (pI 9.7) peptide with conserved but largely uncharacterized functional domains, mainly localized to the nucleus and extracellular space[1][4]. There is no evidence of misspelling or incorrect identity; the nomenclature matches the latest literature and databases. Its main role is as a hormone, not a traditional receptor or enzyme; it acts upon a target receptor (GPR146). Current knowledge is limited, but valid and scientifically grounded.

Other names
C7orf50CHLSNMGC11257YCR016WFP15621protein cholesinuncharacterized protein C7orf50
02

Mechanism of action

Cholesin binds to GPR146 on hepatic cells, leading to inhibition of cholesterol synthesis and decreased VLDL (very low-density lipoprotein) secretion, reducing circulating cholesterol levels[3][4].

03

Biological functions

Negative regulation of cholesterol biosynthesisSignal transduction via hormone activityRegulation of VLDL secretion
04

Disease associations

Cardiovascular disease (atherosclerosis prevention shown in animal models)Joubert Syndrome 17 (by gene association, but not directly linked to mechanism of action)
05

Safety considerations

As with any hormone regulating cholesterol metabolism, there is potential for undesirable lipid imbalances if pathway is overactivated or suppressed.Unknown long-term effects of modulating this pathway, owing to recent discovery[3].
06

Biomarkers

Circulating cholesin protein levels (potential biomarker for cholesterol absorption state and efficacy of cholesterol-lowering interventions)CHLSN gene expression in intestine and plasma

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