Recombinant Human ABCG1 protein

ABCG1 (ATP-binding cassette subfamily G member 1) is a transmembrane protein belonging to the ABC transporter superfamily, which plays a critical role in cellular lipid homeostasis. It functions as a cholesterol and phospholipid transporter, facilitating the efflux of these lipids to extracellular acceptors such as high-density lipoprotein (HDL). This process is essential for maintaining cellular cholesterol balance, particularly in macrophages, where ABCG1-mediated lipid export prevents foam cell formation, a hallmark of atherosclerosis. Dysregulation of ABCG1 has been linked to metabolic disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative conditions.

Recombinant ABCG1 protein is engineered through genetic cloning and expression in heterologous systems (e.g., insect cells, mammalian cells) to study its structure, function, and therapeutic potential. Its production enables detailed biochemical characterization, including ATPase activity, lipid-binding specificity, and interaction with regulatory molecules. Researchers utilize recombinant ABCG1 to investigate its role in reverse cholesterol transport, a key anti-atherogenic mechanism, and to screen compounds that modulate its activity for drug development. Challenges in studying native ABCG1—such as low abundance and membrane localization—are overcome using recombinant versions, which provide standardized material for structural studies (e.g., cryo-EM) and functional assays. Current research focuses on understanding how ABCG1 polymorphisms affect disease susceptibility and exploring its dual role in lipid metabolism and immune response modulation. Recombinant ABCG1 also serves as a tool to decipher its crosstalk with other transporters like ABCA1. offering insights into combinatorial therapies for metabolic syndrome.