PTEN

Ekim 29, 2026
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The PTEN gene provides instructions for making an enzyme that is found in almost all tissues in the body. The enzyme acts as a tumor suppressor, which means that it helps regulate cell division by keeping cells from growing and dividing (proliferating) too rapidly or in an uncontrolled way. To function, the PTEN enzyme attaches (binds) to another PTEN enzyme (dimerizes) then binds to the cell membrane. The PTEN enzyme modifies other proteins and fats (lipids) by removing phosphate groups, each of which consists of a cluster of oxygen and phosphorus atoms. Enzymes with this function are called phosphatases.

The PTEN enzyme is part of a chemical pathway that signals cells to stop dividing and triggers cells to self-destruct through a process called apoptosis. Evidence suggests that this enzyme also helps control cell movement (migration), the sticking (adhesion) of cells to surrounding tissues, and the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis). Additionally, it likely plays a role in maintaining the  stability of a cell’s genetic information. All of these functions help prevent uncontrolled cell proliferation that can lead to the formation of tumors.

Other Names

MMAC1; mutated in multiple advanced cancers 1; phosphatase and tensin homolog (mutated in multiple advanced cancers 1); phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10; protein-tyrosine phosphatase PTEN; PTEN-MMAC1 protein; PTEN1; PTEN_HUMAN; TEP1; TEP1 phosphatase

Related Genetics Topics

Identifiers

  • NCBI Gene: 5728
  • OMIM: 137800
  • OMIM: 155600
  • OMIM: 601728
  • OMIM: 605309
  • OMIM: 608089

Source: MedlinePlus Genetics, U.S. National Library of Medicine.

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