NRL (gene)

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

NRL (gene) is a gene that encodes the Neural Retina Leucine zipper protein in humans. This protein is a key regulator in the development and function of photoreceptor cells, which are essential for vision. Mutations in the NRL gene can lead to various retinal diseases, including Retinitis Pigmentosa and Leber Congenital Amaurosis.

Function[edit | edit source]

The NRL gene encodes a protein that belongs to the basic motif-leucine zipper (bZIP) family. This protein plays a crucial role in the development and maintenance of the retina. It is primarily expressed in the rod photoreceptor cells, where it regulates the expression of several photoreceptor-specific genes, including rhodopsin, the primary molecule necessary for the detection of light.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Mutations in the NRL gene have been associated with a variety of retinal diseases. These include:

  • Retinitis Pigmentosa: This is a group of rare genetic disorders that involve a breakdown and loss of cells in the retina. Mutations in the NRL gene can cause an autosomal dominant form of this disease.
  • Leber Congenital Amaurosis: This is an inherited retinal degenerative disease characterized by severe loss of vision at birth. A subset of this disease, known as LCA8, is caused by mutations in the NRL gene.

Research[edit | edit source]

Research into the NRL gene and its associated protein continues to provide valuable insights into the development and function of the retina, as well as the molecular mechanisms underlying retinal diseases. This research has potential implications for the development of gene therapies for these diseases.

File:NRL gene location.png
Location of the NRL gene on chromosome 14.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]






This vision related article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it.


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