Its primary physiological function is unclear. May play a role in neuronal development and synaptic plasticity. May be required for neuronal myelin sheath maintenance. May promote myelin homeostasis through acting as an agonist for ADGRG6 receptor. May play a role in iron uptake and iron homeostasis. Soluble oligomers are toxic to cultured neuroblastoma cells and induce apoptosis (in vitro) (By similarity). Association with GPC1 (via its heparan sulfate chains) targets PRNP to lipid rafts. Also provides Cu(2+) or Zn(2+) for the ascorbate-mediated GPC1 deaminase degradation of its heparan sulfate side chains (By similarity).
Subcellular locations: Cell membrane, Golgi apparatus
Targeted to lipid rafts via association with the heparan sulfate chains of GPC1. Colocates, in the presence of Cu(2+), to vesicles in para- and perinuclear regions, where both proteins undergo internalization. Heparin displaces PRNP from lipid rafts and promotes endocytosis.