POLG
POLG
POLG (pronounced "P-O-L-G") is a gene that encodes the enzyme polymerase gamma (pronounced "polymerase gamma"). This enzyme is responsible for the replication and repair of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA).
Etymology
The term "POLG" is an abbreviation of "polymerase gamma". The term "polymerase" is derived from the Greek words "poly" meaning "many" and "meros" meaning "part". The term "gamma" is the third letter of the Greek alphabet, often used in science to denote the third in a series.
Function
The POLG gene provides instructions for making the catalytic subunit of the enzyme polymerase gamma. This enzyme plays a crucial role in the replication and repair of mitochondrial DNA, which is found in the mitochondria (pronounced "my-toe-con-dree-uh") - the energy-producing centers within cells.
Related Terms
- Mitochondria: Organelles within cells that generate most of the cell's supply of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), used as a source of chemical energy.
- Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA): The genetic material found in mitochondria. Unlike nuclear DNA, mtDNA is inherited solely from the mother.
- Polymerase: A type of enzyme that synthesizes long chains or polymers of nucleic acids. DNA polymerase and RNA polymerase are both types of polymerase.
- Enzyme: Proteins that act as biological catalysts, speeding up chemical reactions that take place inside cells.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on POLG
- Wikipedia's article - POLG
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