The PPM1D gene provides instructions for making an enzyme called protein phosphatase 1D. This enzyme plays an essential role in cell division, immune cell development, gene expression, and the process by which cells create energy from food (metabolism). This enzyme is present in many of the body’s tissues, including the developing brain.
Protein phosphatase 1D belongs to a group of enzymes known as the PP2C phosphatases, which help regulate cell development in response to environmental stress. The PP2C phosphatases turn on (activate) after attaching (binding) to charged molecules (ions) of manganese or magnesium. The activated enzyme can then regulate the activity of other proteins by removing a cluster of oxygen and phosphorous atoms (phosphate group) from that protein. This regulation helps repair DNA damage and return the cell to its normal state.
Protein phosphatase 1D specifically regulates tumor suppressors, such as tumor protein p53. Tumor suppressors are proteins that keep cells from growing and dividing too fast or in an uncontrolled way. By stopping cells with damaged DNA from dividing, tumor suppressors help prevent the development of tumors. Protein phosphatase 1D turns off proteins such as tumor protein p53 when they are no longer needed, which allows cells to continue growing and dividing.
Protein phosphatase 1D is also thought to play a role in regulating areas of tightly packed DNA called heterochromatin. Because gene expression is lower when DNA is tightly packed than when DNA is loosely packed, protein phosphatase 1D helps to turn off (silence) regions of DNA that are not needed.
Other Names
PP2C-DELTA; protein phosphatase 1D, magnesium-dependent, delta isoform; protein phosphatase 2C, delta isoform; wild-type p53-induced phosphatase 1; WIP1
Related Genetics Topics
Identifiers
- NCBI Gene: 8493
- OMIM: 605100
Source: MedlinePlus Genetics, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
