The SERPINI1 gene provides instructions for making a protein called neuroserpin, which is a type of serine protease inhibitor (serpin). Serpins help control several kinds of chemical reactions by blocking (inhibiting) the activity of certain proteins. Neuroserpin inhibits the activity of an enzyme called tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), which plays a role in cell movement (migration), blood clotting, and inflammation.
By inhibiting tPA activity, neuroserpin is involved in the development and function of the nervous system. Neuroserpin helps nerve cells (neurons) divide and mature so they can take on specific functions (differentiation). Neuroserpin also plays a role in the development of synapses, which are the connections between neurons where cell-to-cell communication occurs. Synapses can change and adapt over time in response to experience, a characteristic called synaptic plasticity. Neuroserpin helps regulate synaptic plasticity, which suggests that it may be important for learning and memory.
Other Names
Axonin-2; neuroserpin; NEUS_HUMAN; PI12; Protease inhibitor 12; Serpin I1
Related Genetics Topics
Identifiers
- NCBI Gene: 5274
- OMIM: 602445
Source: MedlinePlus Genetics, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
