Apo-A1

ApoA1 is also known as apolipoprotein A-I, ApoA-I , and is the major protein component of high density lipoprotein (HDL) in plasma. It has a specific role in lipid metabolism. Chylomicrons secreted from the intestinal enterocyte also contain ApoA1 but it is quickly transferred to HDL in the bloodstream. The protein promotes cholesterol efflux from tissues to the liver for excretion. It is a cofactor for lecithin cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) which is responsible for the formation of most plasma cholesteryl esters. ApoA-I was also isolated as a prostacyclin (PGI2) stabilizing factor, and thus may have an anticlotting effect. Defects in the gene encoding it are associated with HDL deficiencies, including Tangier disease, and with systemic non-neuropathic amyloidosis. In addition, it has been shown that ApoA1 is implicated in the anti-endotoxin function of HDL via interaction with lipopolysaccharide or endotoxin.