The ATM gene provides instructions for making a protein that is located primarily in the nucleus of cells, where it helps control the rate at which cells grow and divide. This protein also plays an important role in the normal development and activity of several body systems, including the nervous system and the immune system. Additionally, the ATM protein assists cells in recognizing damaged or broken DNA strands. DNA can be damaged by agents such as toxic chemicals or radiation. Breaks in DNA strands also occur naturally when chromosomes exchange genetic material during cell division. The ATM protein coordinates DNA repair by activating enzymes that fix the broken strands. Efficient repair of damaged DNA strands helps maintain the stability of the cell’s genetic information.
Because of its central role in cell division and DNA repair, the ATM protein is of great interest in cancer research.
Other Names
AT mutated; AT protein; AT1; ATA; ataxia telangiectasia mutated; ATM_HUMAN; human phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase homolog; serine-protein kinase ATM; TEL1; TELO1
Related Genetics Topics
- Bladder cancer — MedlinePlus Genetics
- Breast cancer — MedlinePlus Genetics
- Ataxia-telangiectasia — MedlinePlus Genetics
- Melanoma — MedlinePlus Genetics
Identifiers
- NCBI Gene: 472
- OMIM: 607585
Source: MedlinePlus Genetics, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
