MT1A, Official Symbol MT1Aprovided by HGNC Official Full Name metallothionein 1Aprovided by HGNC Primary source HGNC:HGNC:7393 See related Ensembl:ENSG00000205362 MIM:156350; AllianceGenome:HGNC:7393 Gene type protein coding RefSeq status REVIEWED Organism Homo sapiens Lineage Eukaryota; Metazoa; Chordata; Craniata; Vertebrata; Euteleostomi; Mammalia; Eutheria; Euarchontoglires; Primates; Haplorrhini; Catarrhini; Hominidae; Homo Also known as MT1; MTC; MT1S; MT-1A; MT-IA Summary This gene is a member of the metallothionein family of genes. Proteins encoded by this gene family are low in molecular weight, are cysteine-rich, lack aromatic residues, and bind divalent heavy metal ions. The conserved cysteine residues co-ordinate metal ions using mercaptide linkages. These proteins act as anti-oxidants, protect against hydroxyl free radicals, are important in homeostatic control of metal in the cell, and play a role in detoxification of heavy metals. Disruption of two metallothionein genes in mouse resulted in defects in protection against heavy metals, oxidative stress, immune reactions, carcinogens, and displayed obesity. [provided by RefSeq, Sep 2017] Expression Broad expression in liver (RPKM 10.5), adrenal (RPKM 7.7) and 15 other tissues See more Orthologs all