CCBL1 Human

CCBL is a cytoplasmic enzyme that catalyzes the irreversible transamination of the L-tryptophan metabolite L-kynurenine to form kynurenic acid (KA), an intermediate in the tryptophan catabolic pathway . This pathway is significant as KA is a broad-spectrum antagonist of the three ionotropic excitatory amino acid receptors . Additionally, CCBL metabolizes cysteine conjugates to form reactive metabolites, which can lead to nephrotoxicity and neurotoxicity .

The expression of CCBL has been studied in various cancers. For instance, CCBL2, a variant of this enzyme, has been identified as a prognostic marker for survival in breast cancer patients . Low expression of CCBL2 is associated with poor survival outcomes in breast cancer, making it a potential independent prognostic marker . Furthermore, CCBL is downregulated in most cancers and is associated with their survival, including renal and ovarian cancers .

The gene encoding CCBL is known as KYAT1 (Kynurenine Aminotransferase 1) . This gene has multiple transcript variants that encode different isoforms of the enzyme . Increased levels of this enzyme have been linked to schizophrenia, highlighting its importance in neurological health .

Research on CCBL continues to uncover its various roles and implications in human health. The enzyme’s ability to form reactive metabolites from cysteine conjugates makes it a significant target for studying nephrotoxicity and neurotoxicity . Additionally, its role in cancer prognosis and survival further emphasizes its potential as a biomarker for various cancers .