Involved in several stages of intracellular trafficking. Interacts with membranes containing phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate (PtdIns(3P)) or phosphatidylinositol 3,5-bisphosphate (PtdIns(3,5)P2). Acts in part as component of the retromer membrane-deforming SNX-BAR subcomplex. The SNX-BAR retromer mediates retrograde transport of cargo proteins from endosomes to the trans-Golgi network (TGN) and is involved in endosome-to-plasma membrane transport for cargo protein recycling. The SNX-BAR subcomplex functions to deform the donor membrane into a tubular profile called endosome-to-TGN transport carrier (ETC). Can sense membrane curvature and has in vitro vesicle-to-membrane remodeling activity. Involved in retrograde endosome-to-TGN transport of lysosomal enzyme receptors (IGF2R, M6PR and SORT1). Plays a role in targeting ligand-activated EGFR to the lysosomes for degradation after endocytosis from the cell surface and release from the Golgi. Involvement in retromer-independent endocytic trafficking of P2RY1 and lysosomal degradation of protease-activated receptor-1/F2R. Promotes KALRN- and RHOG-dependent but retromer-independent membrane remodeling such as lamellipodium formation; the function is dependent on GEF activity of KALRN. Required for endocytosis of DRD5 upon agonist stimulation but not for basal receptor trafficking (By similarity).
Subcellular locations: Endosome membrane, Golgi apparatus, Trans-Golgi network membrane, Early endosome membrane, Cell projection, Lamellipodium
Enriched on tubular elements of the early endosome membrane. Binds preferentially to highly curved membranes enriched in phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate (PtdIns(3P)) or phosphatidylinositol 3,5-bisphosphate (PtdIns(3,5)P2). Colocalized with SORT1 to tubular endosomal membrane structures called endosome-to-TGN transport carriers (ETCs) which are budding from early endosome vacuoles just before maturing into late endosome vacuoles. Colocalized with F-actin at the leading edge of lamellipodia in a KALRN-dependent manner.