GNMT : glycine N-methyltransferase
Description
GNMT (glycine N-methyltransferase) is a crucial enzyme involved in one-carbon metabolism, a pathway vital for many cellular processes, including DNA synthesis, methylation, and folate metabolism. GNMT primarily catalyzes the methylation of glycine to sarcosine using tetrahydrofolate as a cofactor. This enzyme plays a critical role in regulating the levels of tetrahydrofolate and homocysteine, two essential metabolites involved in various metabolic pathways. GNMT‘s activity is tightly regulated by various factors, including nutritional status, hormonal signals, and cellular stress, highlighting its importance in maintaining metabolic homeostasis.
Associated Diseases
- Liver disease (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, alcoholic liver disease, cirrhosis)
- Cancer (colorectal cancer, lung cancer, breast cancer)
- Neurological disorders (Alzheimer‘s disease, Parkinson‘s disease)
- Cardiovascular disease (hyperhomocysteinemia, atherosclerosis)
- Metabolic disorders (obesity, diabetes)
- Folate deficiency
Did you know?
GNMT gene expression is significantly elevated in individuals with chronic alcoholism, suggesting its potential role in the pathogenesis of alcoholic liver disease.
