Plays a role in neuronal proliferation and differentiation (PubMed:25281927). Plays a role in the accumulation of cellular cholesterol (By similarity). Involved in intracellular lipid droplet formation (PubMed:25281927). May contribute to cholesterol homeostasis in neuronal cells (By similarity). Predominantly localized to cholesterol-enriched domains within the membrane (PubMed:19179482). Localizes to cytoplasmic punctate vesicular structures (By similarity). Expressed in brain and testis (PubMed:15645143). Expressed in fetal brain (PubMed:15645143). Up-regulated by thyroid hormone T3 (PubMed:19179482). The SSD (sterol-sensing) domain is necessary for the increase in cellular cholesterol uptake. Belongs to the patched family.