PPT1

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

PPT1 or Palmitoyl-Protein Thioesterase 1 is an enzyme that is encoded by the PPT1 gene in humans. This enzyme is involved in the catabolism of lipid-modified proteins during lysosomal degradation. Mutations in the PPT1 gene are associated with a form of neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL) known as Infantile Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (INCL) or Santavuori-Haltia disease.

Function[edit | edit source]

PPT1 is a small glycoprotein enzyme that removes long fatty acid chains such as palmitate from modified cysteine residues in proteins or peptides during lysosomal degradation. This process is essential for the normal functioning of cells. The enzyme is most active in neurons, especially in the cerebellum, cortex, and retina.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Mutations in the PPT1 gene cause a rare and fatal neurodegenerative disease known as Infantile Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (INCL) or Santavuori-Haltia disease. This disease is characterized by progressive loss of vision, mental and motor deterioration, seizures, and premature death, usually within the first decade of life.

Diagnosis and Treatment[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of INCL is based on clinical symptoms, enzymatic analysis of white blood cells or skin fibroblasts, and confirmed by genetic testing of the PPT1 gene. Currently, there is no cure for INCL. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive, and may include anticonvulsant medication to control seizures, physical therapy to manage loss of motor skills, and other interventions to improve quality of life.

Research[edit | edit source]

Research is ongoing to better understand the function of PPT1 and the pathogenesis of INCL. Experimental therapies such as enzyme replacement therapy and gene therapy are being explored.


Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD