SREBP Cleavage-Activating Protein (SCAP)

SREBP Cleavage-Activating Protein (SCAP) is an integral membrane protein located in the endoplasmic reticulum that plays a central role in cellular lipid metabolism and homeostasis. It acts as a sterol-regulated escort protein, transporting SREBPs from the ER to the Golgi for processing and activation. SCAP functions as a cholesterol sensor, regulating the release of inactive SREBP from the ER membrane. The SCAP-SREBP pathway is critical for cholesterol homeostasis, fatty acid metabolism, and adaptation to cholesterol synthesis inhibitors and high-calorie diets. Dysregulation of this pathway is implicated in lipid disorders, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic disorders, making SCAP a potential therapeutic target.

Regulates SREBP processing and activation, influencing lipid synthesis and uptake. Acts as a cholesterol sensor and escort protein for SREBPs, controlling their transport from the ER to the Golgi for proteolytic cleavage and subsequent activation of lipid synthesis genes.