Caveolin is a protein that plays a crucial role in the formation of small invaginations in the cell membrane known as caveolae. These structures are involved in various cellular processes, including endocytosis, signal transduction, and lipid regulation. Caveolin is primarily found in adipocytes (fat cells) and endothelial cells (cells lining blood vessels). There are three main isoforms of caveolin: Caveolin-1, Caveolin-2, and Caveolin-3, each with distinct functions and tissue distributions. Caveolin-1 is the most studied and is essential for maintaining cellular structure and function. Dysregulation of caveolin expression has been linked to several diseases, including cancer and cardiovascular disorders.