DHFR

Description

The DHFR gene encodes dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR), an essential enzyme involved in the folate metabolic pathway. Folate, a B vitamin, is vital for DNA synthesis, cell division, and growth. DHFR catalyzes the reduction of dihydrofolate to tetrahydrofolate, a crucial coenzyme for numerous metabolic processes. This gene is found on chromosome 5 and is highly conserved across different species, highlighting its fundamental role in cellular function.

Associated Diseases

• Methotrexate resistance in cancer treatment
• Congenital DHFR deficiency leading to megaloblastic anemia

Did you know?

DHFR is a target for several anticancer drugs, such as methotrexate, which inhibit its activity and disrupt folate metabolism in rapidly dividing cancer cells.