Cps1 - carbamoyl-phosphate synthetase 1

This gene encodes a protein localized to the inner mitochondrial matrix. The encoded protein plays a role in the detoxification of ammonia by catalyzing the first step in the urea cycle in which carbomyl-phosphate is synthesized from ammonia and bicarbonate. Carbamoyl-phosphate is subsequently converted to urea that is excreted by the kidneys. Deficiency of the encoded enzyme leads to an accumulation of ammonia in the blood. High levels of ammonia are toxic to the central nervous system and result in neurological disorders. [provided by RefSeq, Oct 2013]