Characterisation of a novel neural-specific ATPase in cholesterol transport

In cells such as neurons that specialise in communication, transport of molecules constitutes a significant part of total cell activity. Excess trafficking of cholesterol from the Golgi apparatus causes early ageing and death of nerve cells. Little is known about how cholesterol transport between different locations within cell is controlled. We have cloned a novel enzyme that may function as a specialist cholesterol transporter. We will determine how this enzyme controls cholesterol traffic during nerve cell development and maturity. This study will unveil important mechanisms of cholesterol transport, particularly how cholesterol transport is regulated in nerve cells under various conditions.