Apolipoprotein A-I

APOA1 (Apolipoprotein A-1) is a human protein with a specific role in lipid metabolism being the main protein component of HDL in the plasma. APOA1 promotes cholesterol efflux from tissues to the liver for excretion. Furthermore, APOA1 is a cofactor for LCAT, which is responsible for the formation of most plasma cholesteryl esters. In addition, APOA1 activates spermatozoa motility as part of the SPAP complex. The APOA1 gene is strongly linked with two other apolipoprotein genes on chromosome 11. Defects in the APOA1 gene are linked to HDL deficiency including Tangier disease, and with systemic non-neuropathic amyloidosis. High levels of APOA1 are linked to the manifestation of asthma and atopy.