Glucocerebrosidase

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Glucocerebrosidase

Glucocerebrosidase (pronounced gloo-ko-ser-uh-broh-si-dase), also known as GBA, is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the human body. It is responsible for breaking down a fatty substance called glucocerebroside into glucose and ceramide.

Etymology

The term "Glucocerebrosidase" is derived from the substance it breaks down, glucocerebroside, and the suffix "-ase" which is used in biochemistry to form names of enzymes.

Function

Glucocerebrosidase is found in the lysosomes, where it breaks down glucocerebroside into glucose and ceramide. This process is essential for the normal functioning of cells. When glucocerebrosidase is deficient or absent, glucocerebroside accumulates in the cells, leading to various forms of Gaucher's disease.

Related Terms

  • Gaucher's disease: A genetic disorder caused by the deficiency of glucocerebrosidase.
  • Glucocerebroside: A fatty substance broken down by glucocerebrosidase.
  • Lysosomes: Organelles in the cell where glucocerebrosidase is found and performs its function.
  • Glucose: A simple sugar that is an important energy source in living organisms and is a component of many carbohydrates.
  • Ceramide: A family of waxy lipid molecules composed of a sphingosine and a fatty acid.

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