NPC1L1 (NPC3) AND METHODS OF IDENTIFYING LIGANDS THEREOF

摘要

The present invention provides human, rat and mouse NPCIL1 polypeptides and polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides. Methods for detecting ligands which bind to NPClL1 and block intestinal cholesterol absorption are provided. Also included is a method of identifying ligands which bind to NPCILI using membranes derived from brush border membrane preparations. Compounds that bind to NPCILI can be used for inhibiting intestinal cholesterol absorption in a subject.