ADAM23

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia


ADAM23 is a gene that encodes a member of the ADAM (a disintegrin and metalloprotease) family of proteins. These proteins are involved in a variety of biological processes, including cell adhesion, cell signaling, and proteolysis. ADAM23 is particularly noted for its role in the nervous system and has been implicated in neurological development and function.

Structure and Function[edit | edit source]

ADAM23 is a member of the ADAM family, which is characterized by a conserved domain structure that includes a pro-domain, a metalloprotease domain, a disintegrin domain, a cysteine-rich domain, an EGF-like domain, a transmembrane domain, and a cytoplasmic tail. However, unlike some other ADAM proteins, ADAM23 lacks proteolytic activity due to mutations in the metalloprotease domain that render it inactive.

The primary function of ADAM23 is believed to be related to cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions. It is expressed predominantly in the brain and is thought to play a critical role in the development and maintenance of the nervous system. ADAM23 interacts with other proteins, such as integrins, to mediate cell adhesion and signaling pathways that are crucial for neuronal migration and synapse formation.

Role in Disease[edit | edit source]

Mutations or dysregulation of the ADAM23 gene have been associated with several neurological disorders. Research has suggested a link between ADAM23 and epilepsy, as well as other neurodevelopmental disorders. The exact mechanisms by which ADAM23 contributes to these conditions are still under investigation, but it is thought that disruptions in cell adhesion and signaling pathways may lead to abnormal neuronal connectivity and function.

Research and Clinical Implications[edit | edit source]

Understanding the role of ADAM23 in the nervous system has important implications for the development of therapeutic strategies for neurological disorders. Targeting the pathways and interactions involving ADAM23 could potentially lead to new treatments for conditions such as epilepsy and other neurodevelopmental disorders.

Also see[edit | edit source]

Template:ADAM family

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD