|A service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine®|
On this page:
Reviewed May 2013
What is the official name of the MSH6 gene?
The official name of this gene is “mutS homolog 6.”
MSH6 is the gene's official symbol. The MSH6 gene is also known by other names, listed below.
Read more about gene names and symbols on the About page.
What is the normal function of the MSH6 gene?
The MSH6 gene provides instructions for making a protein that plays an essential role in repairing DNA. This protein helps fix mistakes that are made when DNA is copied (DNA replication) in preparation for cell division. The MSH6 protein joins with another protein called MSH2 (produced from the MSH2 gene) to form a protein complex. This complex identifies locations on the DNA where mistakes have been made during DNA replication. Another group of proteins, the MLH1-PMS2 protein complex, then repairs the errors. The MSH6 gene is a member of a set of genes known as the mismatch repair (MMR) genes.
How are changes in the MSH6 gene related to health conditions?
Where is the MSH6 gene located?
Cytogenetic Location: 2p16
Molecular Location on chromosome 2: base pairs 47,783,081 to 47,806,952
The MSH6 gene is located on the short (p) arm of chromosome 2 at position 16.
More precisely, the MSH6 gene is located from base pair 47,783,081 to base pair 47,806,952 on chromosome 2.
See How do geneticists indicate the location of a gene? in the Handbook.
Where can I find additional information about MSH6?
You and your healthcare professional may find the following resources about MSH6 helpful.
You may also be interested in these resources, which are designed for genetics professionals and researchers.
What other names do people use for the MSH6 gene or gene products?
See How are genetic conditions and genes named? in the Handbook.
Where can I find general information about genes?
The Handbook provides basic information about genetics in clear language.
These links provide additional genetics resources that may be useful.
What glossary definitions help with understanding MSH6?
cancer ; cell ; cell division ; colon ; colorectal ; DNA ; DNA replication ; duct ; E. coli ; endometrial ; endometrium ; gallbladder ; gene ; homozygous ; inherit ; intestine ; leukemia ; lymphoma ; mutation ; protein ; rectum ; stomach ; subunit ; syndrome ; tumor
You may find definitions for these and many other terms in the Genetics Home Reference Glossary.
See also Understanding Medical Terminology.
References (11 links)
The resources on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Users seeking information about a personal genetic disease, syndrome, or condition should consult with a qualified healthcare professional. See How can I find a genetics professional in my area? in the Handbook.