VASP
The VASP Gene: A Key Player in Immune Function and Disease
Description
The Vasp (Vasodilator-Stimulated Phosphoprotein) gene is located on chromosome 12q24.1 and encodes a protein that regulates immune cell function and cytoskeletal dynamics. The VASP protein is a member of the Ena/VASP family of proteins, which are known to play roles in cell migration, adhesion, and proliferation.
Associated Diseases
Mutations in the VASP gene have been linked to several human diseases, including:
- Autoimmune diseases: VASP mutations have been associated with an increased risk of developing autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
- Cancer: VASP has been implicated in the development of several types of cancer, including breast cancer, lung cancer, and leukemia.
- Neurological disorders: VASP mutations have been linked to neurological disorders, such as epilepsy and Alzheimer's disease.
Did you Know ?
According to a study published in the journal "Nature Genetics," approximately 3% of the human population carries at least one VASP gene mutation. This suggests that VASP mutations are relatively common and may have a significant impact on human health.
