ROLE OF METALLOTHIONEINS IN DISEASE

  • 1 January 1978
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 8  (2) , 91-94
Abstract
Metallothioneins are small proteins (6000-10,000 MW) with similar amino acid compositions, high content of sulfhydryl amino acids and no aromatic amino acids. Emax at 250 nm is due to cadmium mercaptide bond. Synthesis is induced by a number of metals including An, Cd, Hg, Cu, Bi, Au and Ag. These proteins function as a mechanism of intracellular storage of some essential metals such as An and Cu. Binding of potentially toxic metals like Cd may be protective, but with saturation of protein by metal, toxicity may occur. Excessive Cd-thionein may have a role in the pathogenesis of Cd induced kidney disease. A more sensitive method for detection and measurement of this protein will greatly enhance future studies, particularly the potential for clinical application.

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