Glutaminyl-tRNA synthetase 1 (QARS1)

Glutaminyl-tRNA synthetase 1 (QARS1) is a class I aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase enzyme that catalyzes the attachment of glutamine to its cognate tRNA (tRNA^Gln) during protein translation, thereby ensuring the accurate incorporation of glutamine into growing peptide chains[2][4][7]. QARS1 is part of the multisynthetase complex in metazoan cells, interacting with other aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases to coordinate protein biosynthesis[7]. It is essential for organismal growth and neurodevelopment; human QARS1 gene mutations lead to severe neurological disorders, including microcephaly associated with seizures and progressive brain atrophy[1][2][4]. While critical for cell viability, QARS1 is not currently targeted by approved therapeutics. Because its function is fundamental to protein synthesis, pharmacologic inhibition poses serious safety challenges.

Other names

Glutamine--tRNA ligaseQARSGlnRSGlutaminyl-tRNA synthetaseglutamine tRNA ligaseGLNRSSYQGlutamine-tRNA synthetaseQARS1 (HGNC-consolidated)Glutamine-tRNA ligaseMSCCAPRO2195[2][7]

(Theoretical) Inhibitors would block aminoacylation of tRNA^Gln, preventing protein synthesis and cell viability (no specific drugs listed in search results)[2][7]