Metallothionein 1X (MT1X)

Metallothionein 1X is a member of the metallothionein family of low molecular weight, cysteine-rich proteins characterized by their strong affinity for metal ions such as zinc and copper. It contributes to detoxification of heavy metals like cadmium and mercury, protects cells against oxidative damage, and helps regulate essential mineral homeostasis. MT1X is expressed in various tissues, notably the liver, kidney, and cancers such as bladder and prostate. It modulates processes including apoptosis, proliferation, and metal-induced cell signaling. Its expression is transcriptionally regulated by the presence of heavy metals and stress signals, and it can buffer toxic assaults or environmental stresses. Elevated MT1X expression is associated with pathological conditions like cancer and may influence prognosis and therapy response[1][2][3].

Other names

MT1XMetallothionein-1XMT-1X

Metal chelation (drugs/chemicals induce metallothionein synthesis to sequester toxic metals); Antioxidant response (drugs modulating oxidative stress can upregulate metallothionein for cell protection); Apoptosis modulation (agents that affect cell death pathways can trigger metallothionein response)