May act as a scaffolding protein within caveolar membranes. Interacts directly with G-protein alpha subunits and can regulate their activity. Thought to have a role in the uptake of lipids and proteins in the intestinal cells; operates in the apical uptake of lipid markers and trafficking of yolk proteins. Affects fecundity and egg laying. Homooligomer. Potential hairpin-like structure in the membrane. Membrane protein of caveolae (By similarity). Expressed in intracellular bodies in intestinal cells. Defective in the apical uptake of lipid and protein trafficking. Reduced brood size thought to be due to attenuated nutrient supply. Belongs to the caveolin family.