Anti-Thymidine Phosphorylase antibody [rTYMP/3444]

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

Thymidine phosphorylase also known as platelet-derived endothelial cell growth factor (PD-ECGF) acts mechanically to catalyze the reversible phosphorolysis of thymidine into thymine and 2-deoxy-alpha-D-ribose-1-phosphate. With a mass of approximately 44 kDa this enzyme is present in various tissues including blood vessels and macrophages. Its expression tends to be higher in tumor tissues which suggests a specific role in cancer biology.

Biological function summary

The enzyme participates in pyrimidine nucleoside metabolism providing an alternate route for thymidine catabolism. It is not part of a larger complex functioning independently to promote angiogenesis. Thymidine phosphorylase enhances the degradation of extracellular thymidine which can positively impact nucleotide balance within cells aiding DNA synthesis and repair.

Pathways

Thymidine phosphorylase operates significantly within the nucleotide salvage pathways. It is essential for clarifying thymidine availability for DNA synthesis. The enzyme links with enzymes like dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase in pyrimidine degradation playing a critical role in maintaining cellular nucleotide homeostasis.

Associated diseases and disorders

Altered activity of thymidine phosphorylase correlates with cancer and mitochondrial neurogastrointestinal encephalomyopathy (MNGIE). In tumors increased levels of this enzyme facilitate angiogenesis contributing to tumor growth and metastasis. In MNGIE mutations in this enzyme lead to imbalances in nucleotides causing mitochondrial dysfunction. The enzyme's dysregulation connects to angiogenesis-related proteins like VEGF in cancer highlighting potential therapeutic targets.