ATP1A3

Sodium/potassium-transporting ATPase subunit alpha-3 is an enzyme that in humans is encoded by the ATP1A3 gene.

Function

The protein encoded by this gene belongs to the family of P-type cation transport ATPases, and to the subfamily of Na⁺/K⁺-ATPases. Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase is an integral membrane protein responsible for establishing and maintaining the electrochemical gradients of Na and K ions across the plasma membrane. These gradients are essential for osmoregulation, for sodium-coupled transport of a variety of organic and inorganic molecules, and for electrical excitability of nerve and muscle. This enzyme is composed of two subunits, a large catalytic subunit (alpha) and a smaller glycoprotein subunit (beta). The catalytic subunit of Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase is encoded by multiple genes. This gene encodes an alpha 3 subunit.

Clinical significance

Mutations in ATP1A3 are often seen in rapid-onset dystonia–parkinsonism (RDP) (also known as DYT12), and genetic testing is recommended in patients where this diagnosis is suspected.