Fatty acid-binding protein, liver (FABP1)

Fatty acid-binding protein, liver (FABP1), or liver-type fatty acid-binding protein, is a 14-kDa cytosolic protein highly expressed in hepatocytes and also found in the intestine, kidney, and other tissues at lower levels[1][4][5]. FABP1 binds long-chain fatty acids, fatty acyl-CoAs, bilirubin, heme, and other hydrophobic ligands, playing a pivotal role in cellular uptake, intracellular transport, and metabolic compartmentalization of lipids and related molecules[1][2][4][5]. Unlike other family members, FABP1 can bind two fatty acid molecules simultaneously, which relates to its distinctive structural features[4]. It modulates lipid metabolism, supports antioxidant defense by binding potentially toxic hydrophobic molecules, regulates nuclear receptor activity (notably PPARs), and contributes to hepatic regeneration and inflammation modulation[1][5]. Deficiency or dysregulation of FABP1 is associated with metabolic diseases, inflammation, and liver dysfunction, and its expression is influenced by drugs targeting lipid metabolism such as PPAR agonists and statins[1][5]. FABP1 is considered both a cytoprotective chaperone and a potential therapeutic target in metabolic and hepatic disease contexts[1].

Other names

L-FABPLiver-type fatty acid-binding proteinFABPLFatty acid-binding protein 1LFABP

Modulation of lipid metabolism and transport in response to drug-induced gene expression changes (e.g., PPARα agonists upregulate FABP1, increasing lipid uptake/oxidation) Enhancement of statin hypolipidemic effects through increased intracellular fatty acid trafficking and PPAR cross-talk