Mediates the import of long-chain fatty acids (LCFA) into the cell by facilitating their transport at the plasma membrane ( , ). Also functions as an acyl-CoA ligase catalyzing the ATP-dependent formation of fatty acyl-CoA using LCFA and very-long-chain fatty acids (VLCFA) as substrates, which prevents fatty acid efflux from cells and might drive more fatty acid uptake. May act directly as a bona fide transporter, or alternatively, in a cytoplasmic or membrane-associated multimeric protein complex to trap and draw fatty acids towards accumulation. Plays a pivotal role in regulating available LCFA substrates from exogenous sources in tissues undergoing high levels of beta-oxidation or triglyceride synthesis. May be involved in regulation of cholesterol metabolism (By similarity). Probably involved in fatty acid transport across the blood barrier .
Subcellular locations: Cell membrane, Endomembrane system, Cytoplasm
Plasma membrane and intracellular membranes, at least in adipocytes. In adipocytes, but not myocytes, insulin via the mTORC1 signaling pathway induces a rapid translocation of SLC27A1 from intracellular compartments to the plasma membrane, paralleled by increased LCFA uptake. Insulin-dependent translocation from the cytoplasm to the cell membrane is regulated by EPRS1. Predominantly cytoplasmic in myocytes.
Highest levels of expression are detected in muscle and adipose tissue small, intermediate levels in small intestine, and barely detectable in liver (, ). Expressed in brain gray matter .