GSTT1 Gene Detail

GSTT1 is a member of a super family of proteins that catalyse the conjugation of reduced glutathione to a variety of electrophilic and hydrophobic compounds.

• The deletion is associated with an increased risk of lung, larynx and bladder cancers, as well as skin basal carcinomas.
• The gene variant is associated with a four-fold increased risk of Myelodysplastic Syndrome due to the decreased ability of GSTT1 to detoxify environmental and endogenous carcinogens.
• The GST-T1 enzyme is found in a variety of tissues, including red blood cells, liver and lung.
• GSTT1 expression is induced by dietary isothiocyanates found in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and watercress.
• The GST-T1 gene is deleted in approximately 20% of the Caucasian and 80% of the Asian population.
• Broccoli consumption showed a protective effect in a study of the incidence of colorectal adenomas.
• Risk allele = deletion.

• Diet rich in antioxidants.
• Minimise toxin exposure.
• Increase cruciferous and allium vegetable intake. GST enzyme activity is induced partly by the breakdown of products from both cruciferous vegetables, DIM extract and allium vegetables.