Recombinant Human MTAP protein (GST tag N-Terminus)

Supplementary information

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

MTAP also known as methylthioadenosine phosphorylase is an essential enzyme that breaks down 5'-methylthioadenosine (MTA) a byproduct of polyamine synthesis. MTAP has a molecular weight of about 31 kDa. The enzyme converts MTA into adenine and 5-methylthioribose-1-phosphate which re-enter the methionine and adenine salvage pathways. MTAP is widely expressed in most tissues but its activity is especially high in the liver and kidney. Alternative names for MTAP include 2G4 and MTAP-A.

Biological function summary

Methylthioadenosine phosphorylase plays a significant role in the salvage pathways for methionine and adenine critical for cellular growth and proliferation. MTAP operates as a part of a complex metabolic network involved in polyamine metabolism. In addition to its metabolic functions MTAP contributes to the regulation of the immune response and cell cycle. MTAP immunohistochemistry is often used to study its expression patterns in various tissues.

Pathways

Methylthioadenosine phosphorylase participates importantly in the polyamine biosynthesis and methionine salvage pathways. These pathways are integral for maintaining cellular homeostasis and nucleotide pools. MTAP works closely with proteins such as methionine adenosyltransferase (MAT) and adenosylmethionine decarboxylase (AMD). In concert they facilitate the regeneration of methionine highlighting MTAP's role in cellular adaptation to metabolic demands.

Methylthioadenosine phosphorylase deficiency or deletion is linked to certain cancers such as gliomas and lymphomas. Loss of MTAP function is often associated with co-deletion of the tumor suppressor protein p16INK4a observed in various malignancies. This deletion can lead to an accumulation of MTA creating a toxic environment that promotes cancer cell proliferation. MTAP and its interaction with proteins like p16INK4a highlight its relevance as a potential target for therapeutic intervention in cancer treatment programs.