dsc-4 encodes the C. elegans ortholog of the large subunit of the microsomal triglyceride transfer protein; dsc-4 affects the length of the defecation cycle and genetically interacts with clk-1 with respect to defecation cycle length, and also with respect to the clk-1- dependent adjustment of defecation cycle length to temperature; a DSC-4::GFP fusion protein is expressed in the intestine beginning during embryonic elongation and continuing on through adulthood.
Predicted to enable lipid transfer activity and phospholipid transporter activity. Involved in lipoprotein transport and plasma lipoprotein particle assembly. Located in endoplasmic reticulum. Expressed in intestine. Human ortholog(s) of this gene implicated in several diseases, including abetalipoproteinemia; familial hypercholesterolemia; and hyperinsulinism. Is an ortholog of human MTTP (microsomal triglyceride transfer protein).