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GALE
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GALEOn this page:
Reviewed January 2008
What is the official name of the GALE gene?The official name of this gene is “UDP-galactose-4-epimerase.” GALE is the gene's official symbol. The GALE gene is also known by other names, listed below. Read more about gene names and symbols on the About page. What is the normal function of the GALE gene?The GALE gene provides instructions for making an enzyme called UDP-galactose-4-epimerase. This enzyme enables the body to process a simple sugar called galactose, which is present in small amounts in many foods. Galactose is primarily part of a larger sugar called lactose, which is found in all dairy products and many baby formulas. UDP-galactose-4-epimerase converts a modified form of galactose (UDP-galactose) to another modified sugar (UDP-glucose). Glucose is a simple sugar that is the main energy source for most cells. This enzyme also promotes the reverse chemical reaction, the conversion of UDP-glucose to UDP-galactose. UDP-galactose is used to build galactose-containing proteins and fats, which play critical roles in chemical signaling, building cellular structures, transporting molecules, and producing energy. Does the GALE gene share characteristics with other genes?The GALE gene belongs to a family of genes called SDR (short chain dehydrogenase/reductase superfamily). 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 GALE gene related to health conditions?
Where is the GALE gene located?Cytogenetic Location: 1p36-p35 Molecular Location on chromosome 1: base pairs 24,122,088 to 24,127,293 The GALE gene is located on the short (p) arm of chromosome 1 between positions 36 and 35. More precisely, the GALE gene is located from base pair 24,122,088 to base pair 24,127,293 on chromosome 1. See How do geneticists indicate the location of a gene? in the Handbook. Where can I find additional information about GALE?You and your healthcare professional may find the following resources about GALE helpful.
You may also be interested in these resources, which are designed for genetics professionals and researchers.
What other names do people use for the GALE gene or gene products?
See How are genetic conditions and genes named? in the Handbook. 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 GALE?acids ; amino acid ; cataract ; cell ; complication ; compound ; deficiency ; enzyme ; galactose ; gene ; glucose ; kidney ; molecule ; mutation ; peripheral ; protein ; red blood cell ; simple sugar ; tissue ; toxic You may find definitions for these and many other terms in the Genetics Home Reference Glossary. See also Understanding Medical Terminology.
References (8 links)
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. |