LCN1
Description
The LCN1 (lipocalin 1) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 9.
Lipocalin-1 is a protein encoded by the LCN1 gene in humans. It belongs to the lipocalin family, a group of extracellular proteins that bind to fat-soluble molecules (lipophiles) by enclosing them within their structure to minimize contact with water. This specific protein can bind to hydrophobic ligands and inhibit enzymes that break down proteins (cysteine proteinases). It's also thought to play a role in taste reception. Lipocalin proteins have a characteristic structure with 8 antiparallel beta-sheets that form a barrel-like shape, which acts as the binding site for ligands. Lipocalin-1 (LCN1) can bind to a variety of fat-soluble molecules, as well as zinc and chloride ions. This binding ability suggests its primary function is to remove potentially harmful lipids and lipophilic molecules from the body. After binding, the complex of LCN1 and its bound molecule is transported into cells via the Lipocalin-1-Interacting Membrane Receptor (LIMR), where the bound molecule can be safely broken down. This process of retrieving molecules might affect several biological processes, including pheromone signaling, immune responses, inflammation, detoxification, tissue development, and cell death (apoptosis).
LCN1 is also known as PMFA, TLC, TP, VEGP.
