Plays a crucial role in the formation of lipid droplets (LDs) which are storage organelles at the center of lipid and energy homeostasis ( , ). In association with LDAF1, defines the sites of LD formation in the ER . Also required for growth and maturation of small nascent LDs into larger mature LDs . Mediates the formation and/or stabilization of endoplasmic reticulum-lipid droplets (ER-LD) contacts, facilitating protein and lipid delivery from the ER into growing LDs (, ). Regulates the maturation of ZFYVE1-positive nascent LDs and the function of the RAB18-ZFYVE1 complex in mediating the formation of ER-LD contacts . Binds anionic phospholipids including phosphatidic acid . Plays an important role in the differentiation and development of adipocytes (By similarity).
Subcellular locations: Endoplasmic reticulum membrane, Lipid droplet
Localizes at endoplasmic reticulum-lipid droplets (ER-LD) contact sites.
Expressed in motor neurons in the spinal cord and cortical neurons in the frontal lobe (at protein level). Highly expressed in brain, testis and adipose tissue.