Proteolipid protein 1 (PLP1) is a form of myelin proteolipid protein (PLP). Mutations in PLP1 are associated with Pelizaeus–Merzbacher disease. It is a 4 transmembrane domain protein which is proposed to bind other copies of itself on the extracellular side of the membrane. In a myelin sheath, as the layers of myelin wraps come together, PLP will bind itself and tightly hold the cellular membranes together.
This gene encodes a transmembrane proteolipid protein that is the predominant myelin protein present in the central nervous system (CNS). The encoded protein functions in myelination. This protein may play a role in the compaction, stabilization, and maintenance of myelin sheaths, as well as in oligodendrocyte development and axonal survival. Mutations associated with this gene cause X-linked Pelizaeus–Merzbacher disease and spastic paraplegia type 2. Two transcript variants encoding distinct isoforms have been identified for this gene.[5]
In melanocytic cells PLP1 gene expression may be regulated by MITF.[6]
Proteolipid protein 1 has been shown to interact with Myelin basic protein.[7][8]