IRGM

IRGM (Immunity-related GTPase family M) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the IRGM gene. It is a member of the immunity-related GTPase family and plays a crucial role in the immune system's defense against intracellular pathogens.

Function

The IRGM gene is involved in autophagy, a process that destroys intracellular pathogens. It is activated by interferon-gamma and can induce autophagy in human cells infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Listeria monocytogenes, among other pathogens.

Clinical significance

Variations in the IRGM gene have been associated with susceptibility to inflammatory bowel disease type 10 (IBD10). Specifically, the disease is linked to a certain single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the IRGM gene.

See also

• Immunity-related GTPase family
• Autophagy
• Inflammatory bowel disease

External links

• IRGM at the National Center for Biotechnology Information

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