ABCA1

ABC1 (for ATP-binding cassette transporter 1) is a member of the family of ATP-binding cassette proteins which transport various molecules across biological membranes. ABC1 contains two characteristic ATP-binding domains and 12 transmembrane domains which form a channel-like structure for transport. Mutations in the ABC1 gene are implicated in Tangier disease, characterized by low serum high density lipoprotein. ABC1 is widely expressed in human tissues, with high levels of expression in liver, lung, adrenal glands, placenta and fetal tissue. ABC1 expression is induced during monocyte differentiation and upregulated in the presence of acetylated low-density lipoprotein. ABC1 may have a dual regulatory function in macrophage lipid metabolism and inflammation.