The GALT gene encodes for the enzyme galactose-1-phosphate uridylyltransferase. This enzyme is essential for the proper metabolism of galactose. It converts galactose-1-phosphate and UDP-glucose into UDP-galactose and glucose-1-phosphate, allowing for the utilization of galactose as an energy source. In the context of toxicology, the failure to metabolize galactose due to GALT gene mutations can lead to the accumulation of toxic substances, causing cellular and tissue damage.
