GMPR Human

GMPR is the only enzyme known to convert guanosine nucleotides to the pivotal precursor of both guanine (G) and adenine (A) nucleotides. This conversion is vital for maintaining the intracellular balance of A and G nucleotides, which are essential for various cellular processes, including DNA and RNA synthesis . The direction of the GMPR-catalyzed reaction is irreversible, ensuring a unidirectional flow of nucleotide conversion.

Recombinant GMPR refers to the enzyme produced through recombinant DNA technology, which involves cloning the GMPR gene and expressing it in a suitable host organism, such as Escherichia coli. This method allows for the production of large quantities of the enzyme for research and therapeutic purposes.

The human GMPR gene has been cloned and characterized to understand its biological function better. For instance, GMPR2, a novel human guanosine monophosphate reductase, has been shown to promote the monocytic differentiation of HL-60 leukemia cells . The recombinant GMPR protein has been purified and its enzymatic activity determined using spectrophotometric assays.

GMPR’s role in nucleotide metabolism makes it a potential target for therapeutic interventions in diseases where nucleotide imbalance is a factor. For example, overexpression of GMPR2 can promote the differentiation of certain leukemia cells, suggesting its potential use in cancer therapy .