About N-Acetylglutamate Synthetase Deficiency

What is N-Acetylglutamate Synthetase Deficiency?

N-Acetylglutamate Synthetase Deficiency (NAGS Deficiency) is a rare inherited disorder caused by a deficiency of the enzyme N-acetylglutamate synthetase (NAGS). This enzyme is responsible for the production of N-acetylglutamate, an important molecule involved in the metabolism of the amino acid arginine. Without N-acetylglutamate, the body cannot properly process arginine, leading to a buildup of ammonia in the blood. Symptoms of NAGS Deficiency include poor feeding, vomiting, lethargy, seizures, and coma. Treatment typically involves a low-protein diet and medications to reduce ammonia levels.

What are the symptoms of N-Acetylglutamate Synthetase Deficiency?

The symptoms of N-Acetylglutamate Synthetase Deficiency include:

-Developmental delay
-Seizures
-Hypotonia
-Feeding difficulties
-Growth retardation
-Hyperammonemia
-Lethargy
-Vomiting
-Liver dysfunction
-Coma
-Death

What are the causes of N-Acetylglutamate Synthetase Deficiency?

N-Acetylglutamate Synthetase Deficiency is caused by mutations in the NAGS gene. This gene provides instructions for making an enzyme called N-acetylglutamate synthase. This enzyme is involved in the production of a molecule called N-acetylglutamate, which is essential for the proper functioning of the urea cycle. Mutations in the NAGS gene lead to a deficiency of this enzyme, which can cause a buildup of ammonia in the blood (hyperammonemia).

What are the treatments for N-Acetylglutamate Synthetase Deficiency?

1. Dietary therapy: A low-protein diet is recommended to reduce the amount of ammonia produced in the body.

2. Medications: Medications such as L-ornithine, L-arginine, and sodium benzoate can be used to reduce the amount of ammonia in the body.

3. Liver transplant: In some cases, a liver transplant may be necessary to treat N-Acetylglutamate Synthetase Deficiency.

4. Gene therapy: Gene therapy is a potential treatment option for N-Acetylglutamate Synthetase Deficiency. This involves introducing a healthy copy of the gene into the patient’s cells.

What are the risk factors for N-Acetylglutamate Synthetase Deficiency?

1. Genetic inheritance: N-Acetylglutamate Synthetase Deficiency is an inherited disorder caused by mutations in the NAGS gene.

2. Ethnicity: N-Acetylglutamate Synthetase Deficiency is more common in individuals of Middle Eastern descent.

3. Age: N-Acetylglutamate Synthetase Deficiency is more common in infants and young children.

Is there a cure/medications for N-Acetylglutamate Synthetase Deficiency?

Yes, there is a medication available for N-Acetylglutamate Synthetase Deficiency. The medication is called N-acetylglutamate (NAG). NAG is a synthetic form of the enzyme that is deficient in people with N-Acetylglutamate Synthetase Deficiency. NAG is taken orally and helps to restore the body's ability to produce the enzyme. It is important to note that NAG is not a cure for the condition, but it can help to manage the symptoms and improve quality of life.