The TH gene provides instructions for making the enzyme tyrosine hydroxylase, which is important for the normal functioning of the nervous system. Tyrosine hydroxylase takes part in the first step of the pathway that produces a group of chemical messengers called catecholamines.
Catecholamines are involved in the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary processes such as the regulation of blood pressure and body temperature. Catecholamines are released into the body in response to physical or emotional stress. Catecholamines also transmit signals from brain cells to other cells in the body.
Tyrosine hydroxylase helps convert the protein building block (amino acid) tyrosine to L-DOPA, which can then be converted to dopamine. Other catecholamines called norepinephrine and epinephrine are produced from dopamine.
Other Names
DYT5b; TYH; tyrosine 3-monooxygenase
Related Genetics Topics
- Tyrosine hydroxylase deficiency — MedlinePlus Genetics
- Dopa-responsive dystonia — MedlinePlus Genetics
Identifiers
- NCBI Gene: 7054
- OMIM: 191290
Source: MedlinePlus Genetics, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
