Human DJ-1 Protein or Its Homologs Having Novel Glyoxalase Activity

摘要

The present invention relates to the novel glyoxalase activity of human DJ-1 proteins or analogues thereof. DJ-1 proteins of the present invention has an glyoxalase activity that removes reactive aldehyde, thereby being applied for antioxidation that protects cells from oxidative damages caused by reactive aldehyde and being used for treating, preventing, or alleviating aging, diabetes, atherosclerosis, and neurodegenerative diseases caused by reactive aldehyde. In addition, a method for screening drug candidates of the present invention effectively screens a candidate material which suppresses or prevents neurodegeneration caused by reactive aldehyde.