The SAMHD1 gene provides instructions for making an enzyme that helps cut (cleave) molecules called deoxynucleoside triphosphates (dNTPs) into their deoxynucleoside and triphosphate components. The dNTP molecules are needed for the replication and maintenance of DNA in the body’s cells, however; invading viruses such as the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) also need dNTPs to make copies of themselves. Therefore, the amount of available dNTPs must be tightly controlled. The SAMHD1 enzyme helps regulate the amount of available dNTPs to both meet the needs of the body’s cells and control viral infections.
The SAMHD1 enzyme is also thought to play a role in DNA repair and maintaining the stability of genetic material.
Other Names
DCIP; dendritic cell-derived IFNG-induced protein; monocyte protein 5; MOP-5; SAM domain and HD domain 1; SAM domain and HD domain-containing protein 1; SAMH1_HUMAN
Related Genetics Topics
Identifiers
- NCBI Gene: 25939
- OMIM: 606754
Source: MedlinePlus Genetics, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
