TSPO

Developmental stage

In erythrocytes, expression levels decrease throughout differentiation (PubMed:27641616). Not expressed in mature erythrocytes (PubMed:27641616).

Function

Can bind protoporphyrin IX and may play a role in the transport of porphyrins and heme (By similarity). Promotes the transport of cholesterol across mitochondrial membranes and may play a role in lipid metabolism (PubMed:24814875), but its precise physiological role is controversial. It is apparently not required for steroid hormone biosynthesis. Was initially identified as peripheral-type benzodiazepine receptor; can also bind isoquinoline carboxamides (PubMed:1847678).

Sequence Similarities

Belongs to the TspO/BZRP family.

Tissue Specificity

Found in many tissue types. Expressed at the highest levels under normal conditions in tissues that synthesize steroids.

Cellular localization

• Mitochondrion membrane
• Multi-pass membrane protein

Alternative names

BZRP, MBR, TSPO, Translocator protein, Mitochondrial benzodiazepine receptor, PKBS, Peripheral-type benzodiazepine receptor, PBR

Database links

swissprot:P30536 entrezGene:706 swissprot:B1AH88 omim:109610

Other research areas

• Cardiovascular