Target intelligence / Profile preview

Gamma-glutamylcysteine Synthetase

Molecular classification
Enzyme
01

Overview

Gamma-glutamylcysteine synthetase (GCL), also known as glutamate–cysteine ligase, is a crucial enzyme in the biosynthesis of glutathione. It catalyzes the first and rate-limiting step in glutathione production by facilitating the ATP-dependent condensation of cysteine and glutamate to form gamma-glutamylcysteine (γ-GC). GCL activity dictates cellular levels of GSH, essential for maintaining redox homeostasis and protecting cells from oxidative stress. Altered expression or function can impact chemoresistance in cancer cells. It is a heterodimer composed of a heavy catalytic subunit and a light regulatory subunit.

Other names
gammaGCSGlutamate-cysteine ligaseGCLGamma-ECS regulatory subunitGlutamate-cysteine ligase modifier/regulatory subunitGSC light chain
02

Mechanism of action

Inhibition of gamma-glutamylcysteine synthetase leading to decreased glutathione synthesis.

03

Biological functions

Glutathione biosynthesisRedox homeostasisAntioxidant defense
04

Disease associations

Cancer (chemoresistance)Oxidative stress-related diseasesParasitic infections
05

Safety considerations

Potential disruption of cellular redox balanceOff-target effects on other glutamate-related pathways

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