Gene LOX
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Also known as
lysyl oxidase, protein-lysine 6-oxidase, LOXLOverview
LOX (Lysyl Oxidase) encodes an extracellular copper-dependent enzyme essential for crosslinking collagen and elastin fibers in connective tissues. This crosslinking provides structural integrity and tensile strength to skin, blood vessels, lungs, and other tissues. LOX activity is critical for proper extracellular matrix assembly and maintenance throughout life.Variants in LOX can affect collagen and elastin crosslinking efficiency, influencing skin elasticity, wound healing, and connective tissue strength. Reduced LOX activity is associated with skin laxity, while LOX is also studied in cancer research due to its roles in tumor microenvironment remodeling. LOX requires copper as a cofactor, linking its function to copper metabolism.
Understanding your LOX genetic status provides insights into extracellular matrix crosslinking and connective tissue integrity. This information is relevant for understanding skin aging, elasticity, wound healing capacity, and potentially cardiovascular health related to arterial stiffness.