About L-Arginine:glycine amidinotransferase deficiency

What is L-Arginine:glycine amidinotransferase deficiency?

L-Arginine:glycine amidinotransferase deficiency is an inherited disorder caused by a deficiency of the enzyme L-arginine:glycine amidinotransferase (AGAT). This enzyme is responsible for the conversion of L-arginine to L-ornithine and glycine. Without this enzyme, the body is unable to properly process L-arginine, leading to a buildup of this amino acid in the body. Symptoms of this disorder can include intellectual disability, seizures, and movement disorders.

What are the symptoms of L-Arginine:glycine amidinotransferase deficiency?

The symptoms of L-Arginine:glycine amidinotransferase deficiency can vary from person to person, but may include:

-Developmental delay
-Seizures
-Intellectual disability
-Growth retardation
-Feeding difficulties
-Hypotonia
-Hearing loss
-Vision problems
-Behavioral problems
-Speech delay
-Movement disorders
-Abnormalities of the head and face
-Abnormalities of the heart, lungs, and kidneys
-Abnormalities of the gastrointestinal tract
-Abnormalities of the skin, hair, and nails

What are the causes of L-Arginine:glycine amidinotransferase deficiency?

L-Arginine:glycine amidinotransferase (AGAT) deficiency is an inherited disorder caused by mutations in the AGAT gene. This gene provides instructions for making an enzyme called L-arginine:glycine amidinotransferase. This enzyme is involved in the production of creatine, a compound that helps supply energy to cells throughout the body. Mutations in the AGAT gene reduce or eliminate the activity of the enzyme, leading to a buildup of certain substances in the body and the signs and symptoms of AGAT deficiency.

What are the treatments for L-Arginine:glycine amidinotransferase deficiency?

1. Dietary management: A diet low in protein and high in carbohydrates is recommended to reduce the amount of arginine and glycine in the body.

2. Supplementation: Supplementation with L-arginine and glycine can help to reduce the symptoms of the deficiency.

3. Enzyme replacement therapy: Enzyme replacement therapy is a form of treatment that involves replacing the missing enzyme with a synthetic version.

4. Gene therapy: Gene therapy is a form of treatment that involves introducing a healthy gene into the body to replace the defective gene.

5. Liver transplant: In some cases, a liver transplant may be necessary to treat the condition.

What are the risk factors for L-Arginine:glycine amidinotransferase deficiency?

1. Genetic inheritance: L-Arginine:glycine amidinotransferase deficiency is an inherited disorder, meaning it is passed down from parents to their children.

2. Ethnicity: L-Arginine:glycine amidinotransferase deficiency is more common in certain ethnic groups, such as Ashkenazi Jews.

3. Age: L-Arginine:glycine amidinotransferase deficiency is more common in infants and young children.

4. Gender: L-Arginine:glycine amidinotransferase deficiency is more common in males than females.

Is there a cure/medications for L-Arginine:glycine amidinotransferase deficiency?

Yes, there is a cure for L-Arginine:glycine amidinotransferase deficiency. Treatment typically involves a combination of dietary changes, medications, and supplements. Dietary changes may include avoiding foods high in arginine, such as nuts, seeds, and chocolate. Medications such as L-arginine and glycine may be prescribed to help the body process arginine and glycine more efficiently. Supplements such as vitamin B6, folate, and zinc may also be recommended to help the body metabolize arginine and glycine.