The role of Zeta and Omega class glutathione transferases in endobitic and xenobiotc metabolism

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The glutathione transferases are enzymes that play a significant role in the protection of cells from harmful chemicals in the environment. While some of the chemicals that are detoxified by glutathione transferases cause cancer, and other diseases, these enzymes also eliminate some of the drugs that are used in chemotherapy. Variations in the type and amount of glutathione transferase in a cell can make a normal cell susceptible to cancer causing chemicals and make a cancer cell resistant to anti cancer drugs. We have discovered two new forms of glutathione transferase called Zeta and Omega. The new research to be undertaken here is aimed at understanding the role of these new enzymes in protection against foreign chemicals and the role these enzymes play in normal cellular metabolism. Because the Zeta class glutathione transferase is part of a pathway designed to eliminate excessive amounts of the amino acid tyrosine, we will determine if its inhibition will provide a new treatment for patients with a disease called hereditary tyrosinemia. We will also study the genetic and environmental factors that determine the amount of Zeta and Omega glutathione transferase produced in cells