Reviewed August 2007
What is the official name of the ANG gene?
The official name of this gene is “angiogenin, ribonuclease, RNase A family, 5.”
ANG is the gene's official symbol. The ANG gene is also known by other names, listed below.
What is the normal function of the ANG gene?
The ANG gene provides instructions for making a protein called angiogenin. This protein promotes the formation of new blood vessels from pre-existing blood vessels through a process called angiogenesis. In this process, angiogenin helps stimulate the growth and division of endothelial cells, which line the inside surface of blood vessels, to form new blood vessels. Angiogenesis is important for restoring blood flow after an injury.
Angiogenin is found in a variety of cells throughout the body and circulates in the bloodstream. When angiogenin binds to receptors on the surface of endothelial cells, it triggers a series of reactions that brings angiogenin inside the cell. Once inside endothelial cells, angiogenin moves to the nucleus where it stimulates the production of ribosomal RNA (rRNA), a chemical cousin of DNA. Ribosomal RNA is required for assembling protein building blocks (amino acids) into functioning proteins. Angiogenin stimulates the production of additional ribosomal RNA when there is an increased demand for proteins, such as for the growth and division of endothelial cells. Angiogenin may also be involved in other steps of angiogenesis, such as helping to break down the tissue that surrounds existing blood vessels to allow room for the growth of new blood vessels.
Research findings suggest that angiogenin also has antimicrobial properties, which means it can help fight infections caused by bacteria and fungi.
How are changes in the ANG gene related to health conditions?
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amyotrophic lateral sclerosis - increased risk from variations of the ANG gene
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Researchers have identified several ANG mutations that may increase the risk of developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, particularly in people of Irish or Scottish descent. These mutations replace one of the amino acids used to make angiogenin with an incorrect amino acid. The effect of ANG mutations is not fully understood. Researchers suggest that most mutations reduce the activity of angiogenin. One particular mutation may impair the transport of angiogenin from the surface of endothelial cells to the nucleus. It is unknown how the altered angiogenin protein might increase the susceptibility to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
Where is the ANG gene located?
Cytogenetic Location: 14q11.1-q11.2
Molecular Location on chromosome 14: base pairs 20,222,608 to 20,232,184
The ANG gene is located on the long (q) arm of chromosome 14 between positions 11.1 and 11.2.
More precisely, the ANG gene is located from base pair 20,222,608 to base pair 20,232,184 on chromosome 14.
See How do geneticists indicate the location of a gene? in the Handbook.
Where can I find additional information about ANG?
You and your healthcare professional may find the following resources about ANG helpful.
- Educational resources - Information pages
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 ANG gene or gene products?
- ANGI_HUMAN
- ribonuclease 5
- RNASE4
- RNASE5
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 ANG?
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.