ADAL - Adenosine deaminase like protein |Elisa - Clia - Antibody - Protein

Background

Adenosine Deaminase-Like Protein (ADAL) is a member of the adenosine deaminase family with structural similarities to adenosine deaminase (ADA) but lacks catalytic activity. Despite its name, ADAL does not possess adenosine deaminase enzymatic function. Instead, it is thought to play a role in protein-protein interactions and cellular signaling pathways. ADAL is widely expressed in various tissues, including the brain, liver, and immune system, suggesting diverse biological functions. Research suggests that ADAL may be involved in immune responses, inflammation, and neuronal development. Dysregulation of ADAL expression has been linked to certain cancers and neurological disorders. However, the precise molecular mechanisms and physiological significance of ADAL remain to be fully elucidated. Further investigation into ADAL's functions may provide valuable insights into its role in health and disease

Protein Structure

ADAL has a conserved structure typical of the adenosine deaminase family:

• Catalytic Domain: Central to its function, this domain is structurally similar to that found in classical ADA, potentially indicating deaminase activity.
• Alpha/Beta Barrel Structure: A common structural motif in the adenosine deaminase family that supports the stability and functionality of the enzyme.
• Active Site Residues: Critical amino acids necessary for catalytic activity, often including histidine, aspartate, and serine residues that participate in substrate binding and catalysis.

Classification and Subtypes

ADAL is classified based on its sequence homology and functional domains:

• Single Isoform: Unlike ADA which has multiple isoforms, ADAL is typically characterized by a single primary structure that may be subject to post-translational modifications.

Function and Biological Significance

While the specific biological functions of ADAL are not as well characterized as those of classical ADA, the protein is believed to participate in several key cellular processes:

1. Nucleotide Metabolism: Similar to ADA, ADAL might be involved in the deamination of adenosine or other nucleotides, contributing to purine metabolism.
2. Cellular Homeostasis: By regulating nucleotide levels, ADAL could play a role in maintaining cellular energy balance and metabolic homeostasis.
3. Potential Enzymatic Functions: Given its structural similarities to ADA, ADAL may possess enzymatic functions that influence cellular nucleotide pools.

Interactions

ADAL interacts with various molecules and proteins within the cell:

1. Nucleotide Substrates: Potentially binds and deaminates nucleotides such as adenosine, although the exact substrates may vary.
2. RNA and DNA: Possible interactions with nucleic acids, influencing their stability and processing.
3. Protein Complexes: May form complexes with other enzymes involved in nucleotide metabolism, enhancing or modulating their activity.
4. Regulatory Proteins: Interaction with proteins that regulate its activity, localization, and function within the cell.

Clinical Significance

The clinical relevance of ADAL, while not as extensively studied as ADA, includes potential implications in various health conditions:

1. Metabolic Disorders: Dysfunction in ADAL could disrupt nucleotide metabolism, leading to metabolic imbalances and related disorders.
2. Immune Function: Similar to ADA, alterations in ADAL activity might affect immune cell function, potentially contributing to immune-related diseases.
3. Cancer: Aberrant expression or mutation of ADAL may be implicated in cancer, influencing tumor growth and progression through its effects on nucleotide metabolism.
4. Neurological Disorders: Given the role of nucleotides in brain function, ADAL might also have implications in neurological diseases, although more research is needed in this area.

Summary

ADAL, or adenosine deaminase like protein, shares structural similarities with classical ADA, including a conserved catalytic domain and alpha/beta barrel structure. It is involved in nucleotide metabolism, potentially deaminating adenosine or other nucleotides, and plays a role in maintaining cellular homeostasis. ADAL interacts with nucleotide substrates, nucleic acids, protein complexes, and regulatory proteins. Clinically, it may be relevant in metabolic disorders, immune function, cancer, and neurological conditions. Understanding the structure, function, interactions, and clinical implications of ADAL provides valuable insights into its role in cellular physiology and potential as a therapeutic target.