We have identified a novel, membrane-located protein that interacts specifically with the carboxyl-terminal cytoplasmic domain of the AT1a receptor, which we named ATRAP (for AT1 receptor-associated protein). To further investigate the role of ATRAP in AT1 receptor function, we examined the effect of over-expression of ATRAP on angiotensin II (Ang II)induced AT1 receptor desensitization and/or internalization, and cell proliferation in adult vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Transfection of ATARP potentiated AT1 receptor internalization upon Ang II stimulation in these VSMCs. Moreover, we observed that AT1 receptor-induced DNA synthesis was markedly inhibited in ATRAP transfected VSMCs associated with the inhibition of the phosphorylation of signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT) 3 and Akt, Our results suggest that ATRAP functions as a negative regulator in AT1 receptor-mediated cell proliferation in VSMCs.