Adenosine monophosphate deaminase deficiency

Synonyms

7

Overview

Adenosine monophosphate deaminase deficiency is a condition that can affect the muscles used for movement (skeletal muscles). People with this condition do not make enough of an enzyme called AMP deaminase. In most people, AMP deaminase deficiency does not cause any symptoms. People who do experience symptoms typically have muscle pain (myalgia) or weakness after exercise or prolonged physical activity. They often get tired more quickly and stay tired longer than would normally be expected. Some affected individuals have more severe symptoms, but it is unclear whether these symptoms are due solely to a lack of AMP deaminase or additional factors. Muscle weakness is typically apparent beginning in childhood or early adulthood.

Symptoms

• Muscle weakness

Causes

Myoadenylate deaminase, also called AMP deaminase, is an enzyme that converts adenosine monophosphate (AMP) to inosine monophosphate (IMP), freeing an ammonia molecule in the process. It is a part of the metabolic process that converts sugar, fat, and protein into cellular energy. In order to use energy, a cell converts one of the above fuels into adenosine triphosphate (ATP) via the mitochondria. Cellular processes, especially muscles, then convert the ATP into adenosine diphosphate (ADP), freeing the energy to do work. In some cases (such as greater than normal energy demand), other enzymes then convert two molecules of ADP into one ATP molecule and one AMP molecule, making more ATP available to supply energy. The resulting AMP molecule is not normally recycled directly, but is converted into IMP by myoadenylate deaminase. If myoadenylate deaminase is deficient, excess AMP builds up in the cell and is eventually transported by the blood to liver to be metabolized or to the kidneys to be excreted.

Resources

• Genetics Home Reference