Anti-CYP46A1 antibody [1A7]

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

CYP46A1 also known as cholesterol 24-hydroxylase is a member of the cytochrome P450 superfamily. It has a molecular mass of approximately 56 kDa. CYP46A1 is expressed mainly in the brain specifically within neurons that are active in cholesterol metabolism. This enzyme localizes in the endoplasmic reticulum and is responsible for converting cholesterol into 24S-hydroxycholesterol a more soluble form that can cross the blood-brain barrier.

Biological function summary

The conversion of cholesterol to 24S-hydroxycholesterol by CYP46A1 helps maintain cholesterol homeostasis in the central nervous system. This process is not part of a large complex but it plays an important role in the clearance of excess cholesterol from the brain. The removal of cholesterol metabolites is essential for normal brain function and neuronal health.

Pathways

CYP46A1's activity fits into the cholesterol catabolism pathway to regulate cholesterol levels specifically in the brain. The enzyme interacts with pathways that include cholesterol turnover and removal from the central nervous system. In this context CYP46A1 is related to APOE a protein involved in lipid metabolism and transport contributing to the balance of cholesterol and lipids in the brain.

Associated diseases and disorders

Alterations in CYP46A1 have associations with Alzheimer’s disease and Huntington’s disease. In Alzheimer’s disease abnormal cholesterol metabolism involving CYP46A1 may result in the formation of amyloid plaques as the enzyme is linked to APP which is important in the pathology of Alzheimer's. In Huntington’s disease disruption of cholesterol homeostasis by dysregulation of CYP46A1 might aggravate neuronal degeneration suggesting a potential therapeutic target for neuroprotection.