STEAP family genes are enriched in mural cells and are associated with perivascular metal ion homeostasis and redox activity, a characteristic feature of pericytes. GIPR is selectively expressed in adipose tissue pericytes and marks a perivascular cell population closely associated with the microvasculature. Together, STEAP and GIPR support the identification of pericytes and help distinguish them from endothelial and stromal progenitor cells.