Gamma-glutamylcyclotransferase (GGCT)

Gamma-glutamylcyclotransferase (GGCT) is an enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of gamma-glutamyl dipeptides into 5-oxoproline and a free amino acid, playing a key role in glutathione metabolism and cellular redox regulation[3][6]. GGCT is typically lowly expressed in normal tissues but is often upregulated in many cancer types, where it promotes cell proliferation and survival[2]. Genetic knockout in mice impairs red blood cell survival and antioxidant defense, highlighting its importance in erythrocyte function and lifespan[1]. GGCT is attracting interest as a potential therapeutic target and biomarker in oncology due to its cancer-specific overexpression and role in cellular redox homeostasis[2][5]. Inhibitors such as N-glutaryl-alanine (GA) and its prodrug Pro-GA have been developed to target this enzyme, suppressing tumor growth in preclinical models[2].

Other names

C7orf24CRF21MGC3077GgcCytochrome c-releasing factor 21GCTGGGCGamma-glutamyl cyclotransferasegamma-glutamyl-amino acid cyclotransferaseL-glutamic cyclasegamma-L-glutamylcyclotransferase

Reversible inhibition of GGCT enzymatic activity (as with GA and its prodrug Pro-GA); Suppression of glutathione metabolism critical for cell redox balance and proliferation