Chromogranin A
Chromogranin A
Chromogranin A (pronounced: kroh-moh-gran-in A), often abbreviated as CgA, is a protein encoded by the CHGA gene in humans.
Etymology
The term "Chromogranin A" is derived from the Greek words "chroma", meaning color, and "granum", meaning grain. This is in reference to the appearance of the granules in chromaffin cells when stained.
Function
Chromogranin A is a member of the granin family of neuroendocrine secretory proteins, found in secretory vesicles of neurons and endocrine cells. It is co-stored and co-released with catecholamines, which are chemicals that function as hormones and neurotransmitters.
Clinical Significance
Elevated levels of Chromogranin A can be indicative of neuroendocrine tumors. It is often used as a marker in the diagnosis and management of these types of tumors. However, levels can also be elevated in other conditions such as proton pump inhibitor therapy, renal failure, and certain cardiac and inflammatory diseases.
Related Terms
- Chromaffin cells: Cells in the adrenal gland that produce and store Chromogranin A along with catecholamines.
- Neuroendocrine tumors: A type of tumor that can cause elevated levels of Chromogranin A.
- Catecholamines: Chemicals that function as hormones and neurotransmitters, co-stored and co-released with Chromogranin A.
- Proton pump inhibitors: A type of medication that can cause elevated levels of Chromogranin A.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Chromogranin A
- Wikipedia's article - Chromogranin A
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