Glutathione transferase mu (GST mu) is an enzyme that belongs to the family of glutathione S-transferases (GSTs), which are a group of multifunctional proteins involved in the metabolism and detoxification of various endogenous and exogenous compounds. Specifically, GST mu is a subtype of the GST enzyme that is found in mammals, including humans.
The primary function of GST mu is to catalyze the conjugation of glutathione (GSH), a tripeptide molecule consisting of glutamate, cysteine, and glycine, with a wide range of electrophilic substances. This conjugation reaction aids in the detoxification of harmful compounds by making them more water-soluble and facilitating their excretion from the body.
GST mu is primarily expressed in the liver, where it plays a crucial role in metabolizing and eliminating toxic substances, such as drugs, environmental pollutants, and harmful products of oxidative stress. Additionally, GST mu is involved in the metabolism of certain endogenous substrates, including steroid hormones and prostaglandins.
Genetic variations in the GST mu gene can lead to variations in GST mu enzyme activity, which in turn may affect an individual's susceptibility to the toxicity of certain drugs or environmental chemicals. Moreover, alterations in GST mu activity have been implicated in the development and progression of several diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and autoimmune conditions.
In summary, glutathione transferase mu is an enzyme that functions in the detoxification and metabolism of various compounds in the body, playing a vital role in maintaining overall health and protecting against harmful substances.
