Aspartate--tRNA ligase, cytoplasmic (DARS1)

Aspartate--tRNA ligase, cytoplasmic (DARS1) is an enzyme encoded by the DARS1 gene on chromosome 2 and is part of the aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase family[1][2][3][4][6]. It catalyzes the attachment of the amino acid aspartate to its cognate tRNA (tRNA^Asp), ensuring the correct addition of aspartate to nascent protein chains during translation[1][3][4][6]. DARS1 is ubiquitously expressed in human cells, and its proper activity is critical for general protein synthesis. Mutations in DARS1 cause hypomyelination with brainstem and spinal cord involvement and leg spasticity (HBSL), a neurodegenerative disease marked by spasticity and impaired myelination of central nervous system white matter[1][2][3][4]. DARS1 has also emerged as a molecular biomarker and potential therapeutic target in cancer biology, including gastric cancer[7]. There are currently no approved drugs targeting DARS1, and inhibition would potentially carry substantial risks due to its central role in all cells[1][2].

Other names

DARS1DARSAspartyl-tRNA synthetase 1Aspartate--tRNA ligase, cytoplasmicAspRSSynthetase, Aspartyl-tRNAAsp tRNA LigaseAspartate tRNA LigaseHBSLCell proliferation-inducing gene 40 proteinPIG40Testicular tissue protein Li 192

For theoretical inhibitors: blockade of aspartate attachment to tRNA, resulting in disruption of protein synthesis in sensitive cells