Oxysterol-binding protein 2 (OSBP2)

Oxysterol-binding protein 2 (OSBP2) is a lipid transfer protein that binds oxysterols (including 7-ketocholesterol), and plays important roles in cholesterol homeostasis, lipid transport, and regulation of cellular metabolism[3][5][1]. The protein contains a pleckstrin homology (PH) domain and an oxysterol-binding region, and alternative splicing produces multiple isoforms[3][5]. OSBP2 helps regulate the intracellular handling of cholesterol and oxysterols, potentially protecting cells from oxysterol cytotoxicity[3][2][5]. It also regulates signaling pathways such as β-catenin in preadipocytes, thereby influencing adipocyte differentiation, obesity risk, and energy metabolism[1]. Animal and cellular models suggest that OSBP2 disruption affects preadipocyte maturation, lipid droplet formation, and metabolic phenotypes[1]. OSBP2 is considered a potential therapeutic target, especially for obesity and hypercholesterolemia-related diseases[1].

Other names

ORP4OSBPL4Oxysterol-binding protein-related protein 4KIAA1664HLMOSBPL1 (older or alternate mapping)

Modulation of cholesterol transport Regulation or sequestration of cytotoxic oxysterols Regulation of preadipocyte differentiation via β-catenin signaling