StAR-related lipid transfer protein 3 (STARD3)

Sterol-binding protein that mediates cholesterol transport from the endoplasmic reticulum into endosomes (PubMed:11053434, PubMed:15930133, PubMed:22514632, PubMed:28377464). Creates contact site between the endoplasmic reticulum and late endosomes: localizes to late endosome membranes and contacts that the endoplasmic reticulum via interaction with VAPA and VAPB (PubMed:24105263, PubMed:28377464).

Acts as a lipid transport protein that redirects sterol into the endosome at the cost of the cell membrane and favors membrane formation within endosomes (PubMed:28377464). May also mediate cholesterol transport between other membranes, such as mitochondria membrane or cell membrane (PubMed:12070139, PubMed:19965586).