Neuropathy target esterase
Neuropathy target esterase (NTE), also known as patatin-like phospholipase domain-containing protein 6 (PNPLA6), is an enzyme that in humans is encoded by the PNPLA6 gene. NTE is involved in the metabolism of lipids and has been associated with a variety of neurological disorders, including neuropathy and spastic paraplegia.
Function[edit | edit source]
Neuropathy target esterase is a membrane-associated enzyme found in high concentrations in the nervous system. It is involved in the hydrolysis of phosphatidylcholine, a type of phospholipid that is abundant in cell membranes. This process is crucial for the maintenance of cell membrane integrity and function.
Clinical significance[edit | edit source]
Mutations in the PNPLA6 gene that encodes NTE have been associated with several neurological disorders. These include:
- Infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy (INAD): A severe neurodegenerative disorder that begins in infancy and leads to early death. Symptoms include progressive loss of vision, intellectual and motor deterioration, and seizures.
- Boucher-Neuhäuser syndrome: A rare condition characterized by ataxia, hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, and chorioretinal dystrophy.
- Gordon Holmes syndrome: A condition characterized by ataxia, dementia, and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism.
- Laurence-Moon syndrome: A condition characterized by retinitis pigmentosa, mental retardation, and spastic paraplegia.
See also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
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