Gene ITPA
Back to Curriculum
Also known as
inosine triphosphatase, ITTP, ITPase, NTPaseOverview
ITPA (Inosine Triphosphatase) encodes an enzyme that hydrolyzes inosine triphosphate (ITP) and deoxyinosine triphosphate (dITP), preventing their incorporation into DNA and RNA. This housekeeping function protects the genome from mutagenic nucleotide analogs and maintains nucleotide pool balance.Variants in ITPA are clinically significant for predicting adverse reactions to thiopurine drugs (azathioprine, 6-mercaptopurine) and ribavirin. Individuals with reduced ITPA activity accumulate toxic metabolites during treatment with these medications. The P32T polymorphism (rs1127354) is particularly important for predicting ribavirin-induced hemolytic anemia during hepatitis C treatment.
Understanding your ITPA genetic status is valuable for pharmacogenomic guidance, particularly before treatment with thiopurines or ribavirin-containing regimens. This information can help prevent serious drug toxicity and guide dosing decisions.