AGO1
Understanding AGO1: A Key Player in Human Health and Disease
Description
AGO1 (Argonaute 1) is a protein that plays a crucial role in RNA interference (RNAi), a mechanism that regulates gene expression. RNAi involves the silencing or suppression of specific genes by targeting their messenger RNA (mRNA). AGO1 is responsible for binding to and cleaving the target mRNA, leading to its degradation and the subsequent inhibition of gene expression.
Associated Diseases
Mutations or dysregulation of AGO1 have been linked to several human diseases, including:
- Microcephaly: A condition characterized by an abnormally small head and brain
- Intellectual disability: Learning difficulties and cognitive impairments
- Oligodendroglioma: A type of brain tumor
- Autism spectrum disorder: A neurodevelopmental disorder that affects social and communication skills
- Rett syndrome: A rare genetic disorder that primarily affects females
Did you Know ?
According to studies, mutations in the AGO1 gene are found in approximately 1% of children with intellectual disability.
