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Metallothioneins I and II: neuroprotective significance during CNS patholgoy

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posted on 2023-05-16, 19:24 authored by Stankovic, RK, Chung, RS, Penkowa, M
Metallothioneins (MTs) constitutes a superfamily of highly conserved, low molecular weight polypeptides, which are characterized by high contents of cysteine (sulphur) and metals. As intracellular metal-binding proteins they play a significant role in the regulation of essential metals. The major isoforms of the protein (MT-I and MT-II) are induced by numerous stimuli and pathogens but most importantly their induction by metals is closely linked to the physiological metabolism of zinc and protection from the toxic affects following heavy metal exposure. Although the preservation of their genetic expression across animal phyla suggests that MTs may play an important physiological role, MT-I, II knock out (KO) mice survive to adulthood. In both central and peripheral nervous tissues, MT-I, II have neuroprotective roles, which are also induced by exogenous MT-I and/or MT-II treatment. Hence, MT-I, II may provide neurotherapeutic targets offering protection against neuronal injury and degeneration.

History

Publication title

The International Journal of Biochemistry & Cell Biology

Volume

39

Pagination

484-489

ISSN

1357-2725

Department/School

Menzies Institute for Medical Research

Publisher

Pergamon

Place of publication

United Kingdom

Rights statement

© 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Repository Status

  • Restricted

Socio-economic Objectives

Clinical health not elsewhere classified

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