
Cushing syndrome is an
adrenal gland disorder that triggers hypertrophy of the glands and an
increase in cortisol, an important hormone that suppresses inflammation
and protects against stress. Genetic mutations of Armc5 are
associated with the occurrence of this rare type of Cushing syndrome, suggests previous studies.
Genetic mutations of the Armc5 gene disrupt fetal development and
compromise the immune response. Such are the findings of a study
conducted by a team of Quebec researchers including Professor Alain
Lamarre of Centre INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier.
The results of this study, which was recently published in Nature Communications, shed light on the vital role this protein plays in fetal development and in T-cell and adrenal gland biology. A better understanding of the mechanisms of action of ARMC5 could lead to new treatments for endocrine disorders.
Further studies will be needed to learn more about the modes of action of ARMC5, whose function depends on the interaction with other proteins.
Source: Eurekalert