FABP7 Human, His

Fatty Acid Binding Protein-7 (FABP7), also known as Brain Lipid Binding Protein (BLBP), is a member of the fatty acid-binding protein family. These proteins are small, highly conserved cytoplasmic proteins that bind long-chain fatty acids and other hydrophobic ligands . FABP7 is particularly significant in the brain, where it plays a crucial role in the development and function of the central nervous system.

FABP7 is encoded by the FABP7 gene, which produces a protein that is essential for the establishment of the radial glial fiber system in the developing brain . This system is necessary for the migration of immature neurons to establish cortical layers . The protein has a hydrophobic cavity that allows it to bind and transport fatty acids and other hydrophobic molecules within the cell .

Recent studies have shown that FABP7, along with other fatty acid-binding proteins like FABP3 and FABP8, can bind cholesterol and facilitate its egress from lysosomes . This function is critical for maintaining cellular cholesterol homeostasis and ensuring the proper distribution of cholesterol to various cellular membranes .

The recombinant form of FABP7, tagged with a His (histidine) tag, is produced using recombinant DNA technology. The His tag is a sequence of histidine residues added to the protein to facilitate its purification and detection. This recombinant protein is used in various research applications to study the function and interactions of FABP7 in a controlled environment.

FABP7 has been associated with several neurological conditions, including autism spectrum disorder and anxiety . Its role in the transport of fatty acids and cholesterol suggests that it may be involved in the metabolic processes underlying these conditions. Understanding the function of FABP7 could lead to new therapeutic targets for treating these disorders.