DNAH8
Description
The DNAH8 gene provides instructions for making a protein called dynein heavy chain 8. This protein is a component of the dynein motor complex, which is essential for the movement of cilia and flagella. Cilia are hair-like structures found on the surface of many cells, and they play important roles in various cellular processes, including sensory perception, fluid transport, and cell signaling. Flagella are longer, whip-like structures that enable sperm cells to swim. Mutations in the DNAH8 gene can disrupt the function of the dynein motor complex, leading to a variety of human diseases.
Associated Diseases
- Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD)
- Kartagener syndrome
- Situs inversus
- Infertility
- Bronchiectasis
- Chronic sinusitis
- Respiratory distress syndrome
Did you know?
Mutations in DNAH8 are responsible for about 50% of all cases of primary ciliary dyskinesia.