Phospholipid-transporting ATPase ABCA1 (ABCA1)

Phospholipid-transporting ATPase ABCA1 is a membrane-associated protein that plays a critical role in lipid homeostasis, particularly in the efflux of cholesterol and phospholipids from cells to apolipoproteins, which leads to the formation of high-density lipoprotein (HDL). This process is essential for reverse cholesterol transport, where excess cellular cholesterol is transported to the liver for excretion or redistribution. Mutations or deficiencies in ABCA1 cause severe reductions in HDL levels due to impaired efflux of cellular lipids, underlying rare genetic disorders like Tangier disease and familial HDL deficiency, both associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

ATP-dependent transport of phospholipids and cholesterol