3110082I17Rik, the mouse ortholog of human C7orf50, encodes a hormone named Cholesin. This gene is crucial for cholesterol homeostasis as the hormone it encodes is involved in the regulation of cholesterol metabolism pathways. Understanding its function is vital for comprehending cholesterol-related biological processes, and mouse models are valuable genetic tools for its study.

Research has identified that Cholesin, encoded by 3110082I17Rik, is secreted from the intestine in response to cholesterol absorption. It binds to GPR146, an orphan G-protein-coupled receptor, and inhibits PKA signaling. This, in turn, suppresses SREBP2-controlled cholesterol synthesis in the liver, demonstrating that the Cholesin-GPR146 axis mediates the inhibitory effect of intestinal cholesterol absorption on hepatic cholesterol synthesis [1].

In conclusion, 3110082I17Rik is essential for regulating cholesterol metabolism through the production of Cholesin. The use of mouse models has revealed its role in maintaining cholesterol homeostasis. Given its function, 3110082I17Rik holds promise in combating hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis, providing new insights into potential therapeutic strategies for these cholesterol-related diseases [1].