GFAP : glial fibrillary acidic protein
Description
The GFAP (glial fibrillary acidic protein) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 17.
The GFAP gene provides instructions for making a protein called glial fibrillary acidic protein. This protein is a member of the intermediate filament family, forming networks that support and strengthen cells. Multiple glial fibrillary acidic protein molecules bind to create the intermediate filament found in astroglial cells, which support and nourish cells in the brain and spinal cord. When brain or spinal cord cells are injured, astroglial cells produce more glial fibrillary acidic protein. While its exact function is unclear, glial fibrillary acidic protein likely controls astroglial cell shape, movement, and function. Some researchers believe astroglial cells play a significant role in other cell functions, including those of oligodendrocytes (cells surrounding nerves involved in myelin production and maintenance). Myelin is the fatty coating around certain nerve cells that enables rapid nerve impulse transmission. Additionally, astroglial cells may help maintain the blood-brain barrier, allowing only specific substances to pass between blood vessels and the brain.
GFAP is also known as ALXDRD.
