N-6 Adenine-Specific DNA Methyltransferase 1 (N6AMT1) is a crucial enzyme involved in the methylation of adenine residues in DNA. This enzyme is evolutionarily conserved and is found in a wide range of organisms, from prokaryotes to humans . In humans, N6AMT1 plays a significant role in various biological processes, including cell cycle regulation, protein methylation, and arsenic detoxification .
The N6AMT1 gene is located on chromosome 21 (21q21.3) in humans . The gene encodes a protein that is approximately 42 kDa in size and consists of several conserved motifs characteristic of methyltransferases . The enzyme utilizes S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) as a methyl donor to transfer methyl groups to specific adenine residues in DNA .
N6AMT1 has been associated with several pathological conditions:
Recent studies have highlighted the importance of N6AMT1 in cell cycle regulation. For instance, depletion of N6AMT1 in cells leads to increased cell doubling time and disrupted progression through various phases of the cell cycle . Understanding the functions and regulatory mechanisms of N6AMT1 is essential for developing therapeutic strategies for diseases associated with this enzyme.