Home

metallothioneins

Metallothioneins (MTs) are a family of small, cysteine-rich proteins that play a crucial role in metal homeostasis and detoxification in various organisms, including humans. They are characterized by their ability to bind and transport essential metals such as zinc, copper, and cadmium, as well as toxic metals like mercury and lead. MTs are synthesized in response to increased metal levels or oxidative stress, and their expression is tightly regulated.

The primary structure of MTs consists of a repeated sequence of cysteine and glycine residues, which form

MTs have been extensively studied for their potential therapeutic applications, particularly in the treatment of metal

However, the role of MTs in metal homeostasis and detoxification is complex and not fully understood. Recent

a
unique
three-dimensional
structure
that
can
accommodate
metal
ions.
The
binding
of
metals
to
MTs
is
reversible,
allowing
for
the
dynamic
regulation
of
metal
levels
within
cells.
MTs
are
found
in
the
cytoplasm
and
nucleus
of
cells,
and
their
expression
can
be
induced
by
various
stimuli,
including
heavy
metals,
oxidative
stress,
and
inflammation.
poisoning
and
oxidative
stress-related
diseases.
For
example,
MTs
have
been
shown
to
enhance
the
detoxification
of
heavy
metals
and
to
protect
cells
from
oxidative
damage.
Additionally,
MTs
have
been
investigated
for
their
potential
role
in
the
treatment
of
neurodegenerative
diseases,
such
as
Alzheimer's
and
Parkinson's,
where
metal
dyshomeostasis
and
oxidative
stress
are
thought
to
play
a
significant
role.
studies
have
suggested
that
MTs
may
also
play
a
role
in
the
regulation
of
gene
expression
and
cellular
signaling,
further
highlighting
the
multifaceted
nature
of
these
proteins.
Overall,
metallothioneins
are
a
fascinating
and
important
class
of
proteins
that
continue
to
be
the
subject
of
intense
research
and
investigation.