Reviewed January 2009
What are the USP genes?
Genes in the USP gene family provide instructions for making more than 60 proteins called ubiquitin-specific proteases. A protease is an enzyme that cuts apart other proteins.
Ubiquitin-specific proteases help to regulate many cellular processes by controlling the amount of the protein ubiquitin. Ubiquitin is an essential part of a multi-step process called the ubiquitin-proteasome system, which helps control the levels of many proteins in the cell. Attaching ubiquitin to another protein serves to target that protein for destruction by the proteasome.
Mutations that affect the function of ubiquitin-specific proteases are associated with a number of cancers as well as other disorders involving inflammation and the regulation of cell death.
Which gene is included in the USP gene family?
The HUGO Gene Nomenclature Committee (HGNC) provides a list of genes in the USP family
.
Genetics Home Reference provides additional information about this member of the USP gene family: USP9Y.
What conditions are related to genes in the USP gene family?
Genetics Home Reference includes these conditions related to genes in the USP gene family:
Where can I find additional information about
the USP gene family?
You may find the following resources about the USP gene family helpful.
Where can I find general information about genes and gene families?
The Handbook provides basic information about genetics in clear language.
What glossary definitions help with understanding the USP (ubiquitin-specific peptidases) gene family?
cancer ;
cell ;
enzyme ;
gene ;
inflammation ;
mutation ;
protease ;
proteasome ;
protein ;
ubiquitin
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.
