Reviewed November 2008
What is the official name of the ABHD5 gene?
The official name of this gene is “abhydrolase domain containing 5.”
ABHD5 is the gene's official symbol. The ABHD5 gene is also known by other names, listed below.
What is the normal function of the ABHD5 gene?
The ABHD5 gene provides instructions for making a protein that turns on (activates) an enzyme called adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL). The ATGL enzyme plays a role in breaking down fats called triglycerides, which are the main source of stored energy in cells. Triglycerides are the major component of cell structures called lipid droplets (also called adiposomes). The ABHD5 protein and the ATGL enzyme are found on the surface of lipid droplets. Once activated, the ATGL enzyme breaks down triglycerides in these structures to provide energy for the body.
Does the ABHD5 gene share characteristics with other genes?
The ABHD5 gene belongs to a family of genes called ABHD (abhydrolase domain containing genes).
A gene family is a group of genes that share important characteristics. Classifying individual genes into families helps researchers describe how genes are related to each other. For more information, see What are gene families? in the Handbook.
How are changes in the ABHD5 gene related to health conditions?
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Chanarin-Dorfman syndrome - caused by mutations in the ABHD5 gene
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At least 20 mutations in the ABHD5 gene have been found to cause Chanarin-Dorfman syndrome. These mutations impair the ABHD5 protein's ability to activate the ATGL enzyme. Without an active ATGL enzyme, triglycerides within lipid droplets cannot be broken down. As a result, these fats accumulate in various organs and tissues throughout the body, causing the signs and symptoms of Chanarin-Dorfman syndrome.
Where is the ABHD5 gene located?
Cytogenetic Location: 3p21
Molecular Location on chromosome 3: base pairs 43,707,378 to 43,735,295
The ABHD5 gene is located on the short (p) arm of chromosome 3 at position 21.
More precisely, the ABHD5 gene is located from base pair 43,707,378 to base pair 43,735,295 on chromosome 3.
See How do geneticists indicate the location of a gene? in the Handbook.
Where can I find additional information about ABHD5?
You and your healthcare professional may find the following resources about ABHD5 helpful.
- Gene Tests
- DNA tests ordered by healthcare professionals
You may also be interested in these resources, which are designed for genetics professionals and researchers.
- PubMed - Recent literature
- OMIM - Genetic disorder catalog
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What other names do people use for the ABHD5 gene or gene products?
- ABHD5_HUMAN
- CDS
- CGI-58
- CGI58
- CGI58 protein
- IECN2
- MGC8731
- NCIE2
Where can I find general information about genes?
The Handbook provides basic information about genetics in clear language.
These links provide additional genetics resources that may be useful.
What glossary definitions help with understanding ABHD5?
cell ;
domain ;
enzyme ;
gene ;
lipase ;
lipid ;
lipid droplet ;
mutation ;
protein ;
sign ;
symptom ;
syndrome ;
tissue ;
triglycerides
You may find definitions for these and many other terms in the Genetics Home Reference
Glossary.
The resources on this site should not be used as a substitute for
professional medical care or advice. Users seeking information about
a personal genetic disease, syndrome, or condition should consult with a qualified
healthcare professional.
See How can I find a genetics professional in my area? in the Handbook.
