Lass1 (Cross reacts with GDF1)

LAG1 is a longevity gene, the first such gene to be identified. Originally cloned from the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. A close homolog of this gene, LAC1, has been found in the yeast genome. The human homolog of LAG1 has functions in human aging. LAG1 may be involved in neurodegenerative diseases and human aging. Lass1 may be either a bona fide (dihydro)ceramide synthase or a modulator of its activity. When overexpressed in cells is involved in the production of sphingolipids containing mainly one fatty acid donor (N-linked stearoyl- (C18) ceramide) in a fumonisin B1-independent manner. Located in the endoplasmic reticulum membrane; LAss1 is a multi-pass membrane protein.