Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 13, 2026

An Immunohistopathologic Study to Profile the Folate Receptor Beta Macrophage and Vascular Immune Microenvironment in Giant Cell Arteritis
Published on: February 8, 2019
Tissue distribution of glycine N-methyltransferase, a major folate-binding protein of liver
Abstract:
Glycine N-methyltransferase (GNMT; S-adenosyl-L-methionine:glycine N-methyltransferase, EC 2.1.1.20) is a major protein in rat liver that binds 5-methyltetrahydrofolate polyglutamate in vivo. This enzyme is believed to function in the regulation of the availability of S-adenosylmethionine, the primary donor of methyl groups in the body. The distribution of GNMT in a variety of rat tissues was examined immunohistochemically. In liver, GNMT was most abundant in the periportal region, whereas in kidney it was seen primarily in the proximal convoluted tubules. In pancreas, GNMT was abundant, principally in the exocrine tissue. GNMT was present in the striated duct cells of the submaxillary gland. In the jejunum, GNMT was found in the epithelial cells of the villi. Close examination of the liver indicated GNMT in the nucleus; this site was confirmed by purification of the nuclei and measurement of enzyme activity. The location of GNMT in the liver and kidney suggests that this enzyme plays a role in gluconeogenesis, while its presence in the exocrine cells suggests it may also be a factor in secretion.
Related Concept Videos
Proteoglycans
Drug Distribution: Tissue Binding
For...
Drug Distribution: Plasma Protein Binding
Tissue-Drug Binding: Localization of Drugs and its Significance
Drugs can bind to different tissue components, enhancing their distribution and localization. The factors influencing drug localization in tissues include the drug's lipophilicity, structural characteristics, tissue perfusion rate, and pH differences. These factors determine the...
Factors Affecting Protein-Drug Binding: Protein-Related Factors
The physicochemical properties of a drug play a significant role in its ability to bind to proteins. Lipophilic drugs, which dissolve in fats, oils, and lipids, can be bound by...
Pharmacogenetics of Phase II Enzymes: N-acetyltransferase, Thiopurine S-methyltransferase, UDP-glucuronosyltransferase

