Glutamate carboxypeptidase II

Glutamate Carboxypeptidase II (GCPII), also known as N-acetylated-alpha-linked-acidic dipeptidase (NAALADase), is an enzyme that in humans is encoded by the FOLH1 (Folate hydrolase 1) gene. It is a type II transmembrane glycoprotein that is expressed in various tissues, including the brain, prostate, small intestine, and kidney.

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Structure of Glutamate Carboxypeptidase II

Function

GCPII is involved in the metabolism of the neurotransmitter N-acetylaspartylglutamate (NAAG), which is present in the brain and peripheral tissues. The enzyme cleaves NAAG to release glutamate, the most abundant excitatory neurotransmitter in the human brain, and N-acetylaspartate.

In the kidney, GCPII functions as a folate hydrolase, involved in the uptake of dietary folates. In the prostate, it has been identified as the Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA), a marker for prostate cancer.

Clinical Significance

Due to its role in glutamate regulation, GCPII has been implicated in several neurological disorders, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and Alzheimer's disease. Inhibitors of GCPII are being investigated as potential therapeutic agents in the treatment of these disorders.

In cancer, GCPII is overexpressed in prostate cancer cells, making it a potential target for the diagnosis and treatment of this disease.

See Also

• Prostate-specific membrane antigen
• N-acetylaspartylglutamate
• Glutamate

External Links

• NCBI Gene - FOLH1
• UniProt - Q04609 (FOLH1_HUMAN)