Target intelligence / Profile preview

Retinal pigment epithelium-specific 65 kDa protein (RPE65) (RPE65)

Target
RPE65
Molecular classification
Enzyme, Metalloenzyme, Short-chain dehydrogenase/reductase, Carotenoid oxygenase homolog
01

Overview

These enzymes, notably RPE65 and several retinol dehydrogenases, are key components of the retinal visual cycle. RPE65 is an iron-dependent metalloenzyme found in the retinal pigment epithelium; it catalyzes the isomerization and hydrolysis of all-trans-retinyl esters to produce 11-cis-retinol, essential for regenerating the chromophore needed for phototransduction. Retinol dehydrogenases (RDH) catalyze reversible oxidation-reduction between retinol and retinal in the presence of NAD(P)+ cofactors. Defects in these enzymes disrupt visual pigment regeneration, causing severe early-onset retinal dystrophies. Therapies targeting these enzymes (especially RPE65) include gene replacement, while retinoid analogues may modulate RDH activity. Monitoring retinoid metabolites and genetic status is crucial for patient selection and efficacy in therapy. Note: The phrase "Retinal enzyme cofactor" is incorrect or ambiguous as a target name; for structured information, use the particular enzyme (such as RPE65 or a specific RDH) rather than this generic term.

Other names
RPE65Retinol dehydrogenaseRetinal isomeraseRetinoid isomerohydrolase
02

Mechanism of action

Restoration or replacement of defective enzyme function (gene therapy for RPE65); Modulation of retinoid metabolism (vitamin A analogs, retinoid cycle inhibitors)

03

Biological functions

Visual cycle/phototransductionRetinoid metabolismChromophore regeneration
04

Disease associations

Inherited retinal diseases (Leber congenital amaurosis, retinitis pigmentosa for RPE65 deficiency)Retinal degenerationOther visual disorders
05

Safety considerations

Off-target retinoid toxicityImmune response to gene therapy vectorsRetinoid cycle intermediates (e.g., all-trans-retinal) can be toxic at high concentrations
06

Interacting drugs

Voretigene neparvovec

1 more in the full profile.

07

Biomarkers

Genetic analysis for mutations in RPE65, RDH5, RDH10, RDH11Retinoid metabolite levels in ocular fluids

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