NPTX1

NPTX1 or Neuronal Pentraxin 1 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the NPTX1 gene. It is a member of the neuronal pentraxin protein family and plays a crucial role in the nervous system.

Function

NPTX1 is involved in the development and remodeling of the synapse, the junction between two nerve cells. It is thought to help in the clustering of glutamate receptors, which are essential for neural communication, memory formation, and learning.

Structure

The NPTX1 gene is located on the short (p) arm of chromosome 17 at position 13.2. The protein encoded by this gene has a pentraxin domain at the C-terminus and a coiled-coil region at the N-terminus. The pentraxin domain allows it to bind to other proteins and form complexes, while the coiled-coil region is involved in protein-protein interactions.

Clinical significance

Alterations in the expression of NPTX1 have been associated with several neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia. In Alzheimer's disease, decreased levels of NPTX1 have been observed in the cerebrospinal fluid and postmortem brain tissues of patients. In schizophrenia, increased levels of NPTX1 have been found in the prefrontal cortex of patients.

Research

Research is ongoing to understand the exact role of NPTX1 in these diseases and to explore its potential as a therapeutic target. Animal studies have shown that overexpression of NPTX1 can enhance synaptic plasticity and improve memory, suggesting that it may have potential for the treatment of cognitive disorders.

See also

• Neuronal pentraxin
• Synapse
• Glutamate receptor
• Chromosome 17
• Alzheimer's disease
• Schizophrenia