Diazepam binding inhibitor

Diazepam Binding Inhibitor (DBI) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the DBI gene. It is also known as acyl-CoA binding protein (ACBP), which has a high affinity for diazepam.

Function

DBI is a protein that is expressed in the brain and other tissues. It has been found to inhibit the binding of diazepam to the GABA_A receptor, hence its name. It is also known to have a role in the regulation of lipid metabolism, acting as an intracellular carrier of acyl-CoA esters.

Structure

The DBI protein is a small 10kDa protein that is highly conserved across species. It consists of a single polypeptide chain of 86 amino acids. The structure of DBI is characterized by a large hydrophobic pocket that is capable of binding to acyl-CoA esters.

Clinical significance

DBI has been implicated in several neurological disorders, including anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and epilepsy. It has also been associated with metabolic syndrome, due to its role in lipid metabolism.

See also

• Benzodiazepine
• GABA_A receptor
• Neurotransmitter