ACBP, ACBD1, CCK-RP, EP, DBI, EP, MGC70414, Acyl-CoA-binding protein, GABA receptor modulator.
ACBP, ACBD1, CCK-RP, EP, DBI, EP, MGC70414, Acyl-CoA-binding protein, GABA receptor modulator.
DBI is a small protein that binds to long-chain acyl-CoA molecules, playing a crucial role in lipid metabolism. It is also known for its ability to bind to the benzodiazepine-binding site of the γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) type A receptor (GABA_A_R), thereby regulating its activity . This dual functionality makes DBI a significant protein in both metabolic and neurological contexts.
Lipid Metabolism: DBI/ACBP binds to long-chain acyl-CoA molecules, which are essential intermediates in lipid metabolism. By regulating the availability of these molecules, DBI influences various metabolic pathways .
Neurological Functions: DBI interacts with the GABA_A receptor, which is a major inhibitory neurotransmitter receptor in the brain. This interaction modulates the receptor’s activity, affecting neuronal excitability and various neurological processes .
Steroid Synthesis: DBI binds to the peripheral benzodiazepine receptor (also known as the mitochondrial benzodiazepine receptor) and facilitates the transport of cholesterol to the inner mitochondrial membrane. This process is crucial for the synthesis of steroids .
Cancer Research: DBI is highly expressed in certain types of cancer, such as glioblastoma. It promotes tumor growth by providing long-chain acyl-CoA molecules to mitochondria for fatty acid oxidation. Reduced expression of DBI has been associated with slower proliferation of glioblastoma cells .
Neurogenesis: DBI is a regulator of neural progenitor and stem cell proliferation in adult neurogenic niches. This makes it a potential target for therapies aimed at enhancing neurogenesis and treating neurodegenerative diseases .
The recombinant form of DBI is used in various research applications, including:
Antibody Production: Recombinant DBI is used to produce monoclonal antibodies for research and diagnostic purposes. These antibodies can be used in techniques such as Western blotting and immunohistochemistry to study DBI expression and function .
Functional Studies: Recombinant DBI allows researchers to study its biological functions in a controlled environment. This includes investigating its role in lipid metabolism, neurological processes, and cancer biology .
Therapeutic Research: Understanding the functions of DBI and its interactions with other molecules can lead to the development of new therapeutic strategies for diseases related to lipid metabolism, neurological disorders, and cancer .