The PRDX1 gene provides instructions for making the peroxiredoxin-1 (PRDX1) protein. This protein is part of a family of peroxiredoxin proteins that are primarily involved in chemical reactions that protect cells from damage caused by unstable oxygen-containing molecules known as reactive oxygen species (ROS).
The PRDX1 protein breaks down hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide is produced through chemical reactions within cells. At low levels, it is involved in several chemical signaling pathways that control cell functions like growth, maturation, and survival. By regulating the amount of hydrogen peroxide in cells, the PRDX1 protein appears to help control these chemical signaling pathways, playing a role in important cellular functions.
At high levels hydrogen peroxide, an ROS, is toxic to cells. If hydrogen peroxide is not broken down, it can damage DNA, proteins, and cell membranes. The PRDX1 protein helps protect cells from this damage.
The PRDX1 gene is close to another gene on chromosome 1 called MMACHC. These two genes have unrelated roles in cells. The protein produced from the MMACHC gene is involved in processing vitamin B12 (also known as cobalamin).
Other Names
MSP23; natural killer-enhancing factor A; NKEF-A; NKEFA; PAG; PAGA; PAGB; proliferation-associated gene A; PRX1; PRXI; TDPX2
Related Genetics Topics
Identifiers
- NCBI Gene: 5052
- OMIM: 176763
Source: MedlinePlus Genetics, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
