The TREX1 gene provides instructions for making the three prime repair exonuclease 1 enzyme. This enzyme is a DNA exonuclease, which means that it trims molecules of DNA by removing DNA building blocks (nucleotides) from the ends.
The three prime repair exonuclease 1 enzyme is helps remove incorrect or damaged nucleotides from DNA. These DNA fragments are created during cell division, DNA repair, cell death (apoptosis), and other processes. The removal of these nucleotides creates even DNA ends, which are necessary for maintaining the stability of genetic material.
Unusual pieces of DNA may be mistaken by cells for the genetic material of viral invaders, triggering immune system reactions. The three prime repair exonuclease 1 enzyme removes pieces of DNA that might otherwise set off an immune response.
Other Names
3' repair exonuclease 1; 3'-5' exonuclease TREX1; deoxyribonuclease III, dnaQ/mutD-like; DNase III; DRN3; TREX1_HUMAN
Related Genetics Topics
- Aicardi-Goutières syndrome — MedlinePlus Genetics
- Systemic lupus erythematosus — MedlinePlus Genetics
Identifiers
- NCBI Gene: 11277
- OMIM: 606609
Source: MedlinePlus Genetics, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
