NIPA-like domain containing 1 (NIPAL1)

NIPA-like domain containing 1 (NIPAL1) is a transmembrane protein localized in the Golgi, acting as a magnesium influx transporter with high selectivity for magnesium ions but also capable of transporting other divalent cations to a much lower extent. It is highly expressed in pancreatic islets and modulates insulin storage and secretion in a magnesium-dependent manner. Deficiency or downregulation of NIPAL1 impairs insulin secretion, particularly under hypomagnesemia conditions, with genetic or functional defects linked to several diseases including diabetes, spondylosis, and X-linked immunodeficiency associated with magnesium defects. While no drugs presently target NIPAL1 directly, its role in magnesium and insulin homeostasis positions it as a potential therapeutic target and biomarker for metabolic disease.

Other names

NIPA3NIPA-like domain containing 1NPAL1DKFZp686A06115SLC57A33830408G10RikRGD1310092Non-imprinted in Prader-Willi/Angelman syndrome region protein 3

Drugs targeting NIPAL1 would primarily act by modulating magnesium ion influx and homeostasis within cells, particularly impacting insulin secretion and possibly immune cell function. No approved drugs targeting NIPAL1 directly are currently documented.