Automated description from the Alliance of Genome Resources (Release 7.0.0)
Enables metal ion binding activity; palmitoyl-CoA 9-desaturase activity; and stearoyl-CoA 9-desaturase activity. Involved in several processes, including positive regulation of cold-induced thermogenesis; sterol homeostasis; and tarsal gland development. Acts upstream of or within several processes, including brown fat cell differentiation; monounsaturated fatty acid biosynthetic process; and white fat cell differentiation. Located in endoplasmic reticulum membrane. Is expressed in several structures, including adipose tissue; central nervous system; cranium; integumental system; and liver. Orthologous to human SCD (stearoyl-CoA desaturase).