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Function

Mediates the transfer of phospholipids and free cholesterol from triglyceride-rich lipoproteins (low density lipoproteins or LDL and very low density lipoproteins or VLDL) into high-density lipoproteins (HDL) as well as the exchange of phospholipids between triglyceride-rich lipoproteins themselves (PubMed:10079112, PubMed:7615508, PubMed:7654777). Facilitates the transfer of a spectrum of different lipid molecules, including sphingomyelin, phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylglycerol, and phosphatidyl ethanolamine (PubMed:10079112). Plays an important role in HDL remodeling which involves modulating the size and composition of HDL (By similarity). Also plays a key role in the uptake of cholesterol from peripheral cells and tissues that is subsequently transported to the liver for degradation and excretion (By similarity). Two distinct forms of PLTP exist in plasma: an active form that can transfer phosphatidylcholine from phospholipid vesicles to HDL, and an inactive form that lacks this capability (By similarity).

Post-translational modifications

Glycosylation is necessary for secretion and its phospholipid transfer activity.

Sequence similarities

Belongs to the BPI/LBP/Plunc superfamily. BPI/LBP family.

Tissue specificity

Highest level expression in the lung, brain and heart with relatively low levels in the liver, skeletal muscle and testis and very low levels found in the spleen and kidney.

Cellular localization

  • Secreted
  • Nucleus
  • Nuclear export is XPO1/CRM1-dependent.

Alternative names

Phospholipid transfer protein, Lipid transfer protein II, Pltp

Target type

Proteins

Primary research area

Immunology & Infectious Disease

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Assay Kits

Target

Reactive species

Detection method

Search our catalogue for 'PLTP' (1)

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