GSTA1 Human
Description
Product Specs
The specific activity, determined by measuring the conjugation of 1.0 µmole of 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (CDNB) with reduced glutathione per minute at pH 6.5 and 25°C, is 35,000 pmol/min/µg.
Product Science Overview
Glutathione S-Transferase Alpha-1 (GSTA1) is a member of the glutathione S-transferase (GST) family of enzymes. These enzymes play a crucial role in the detoxification of a wide range of endogenous and exogenous compounds by catalyzing the conjugation of the tripeptide glutathione (GSH) to electrophilic centers on these compounds .
The GSTA1 gene is located on chromosome 6 in humans and is part of a cluster of similar genes and pseudogenes . The gene encodes a protein that is predominantly expressed in the liver and kidney, where it is involved in the detoxification processes . The protein structure of GSTA1 includes a conserved glutathione-binding site and a hydrophobic substrate-binding site, which are essential for its catalytic activity .
GSTA1 catalyzes the nucleophilic attack of the sulfur atom of glutathione on the electrophilic groups of a wide range of substrates, including carcinogens, therapeutic drugs, environmental toxins, and products of oxidative stress . This reaction is a critical step in the detoxification pathway, as it renders these compounds more water-soluble and thus easier to excrete from the body .
In addition to its role in detoxification, GSTA1 also exhibits glutathione peroxidase activity, which helps protect cells from reactive oxygen species and the products of lipid peroxidation . This activity is particularly important in protecting cells from oxidative damage and maintaining cellular homeostasis .
Polymorphisms in the GSTA1 gene can influence an individual’s ability to metabolize different drugs and detoxify various environmental toxins . These genetic variations can affect the efficacy and toxicity of certain medications, making GSTA1 an important factor in personalized medicine .
Increases in serum and urinary levels of GSTA1 have been associated with hepatocyte and renal proximal tubular necrosis, respectively . Therefore, GSTA1 can serve as a biomarker for monitoring liver and kidney injury .
