Excitatory amino acid transporter 2

Excitatory Amino Acid Transporter 2 (EAAT2), also known as Glutamate Transporter 1 (GLT-1), is a protein that in humans is encoded by the SLC1A2 gene. EAAT2 is primarily responsible for the reuptake of glutamate in the brain, a role that is essential for normal neurotransmission.

Function

EAAT2 is a member of a family of solute carrier proteins, specifically the solute carrier 1 (SLC1) family. These proteins are responsible for the transport of various substances across the cell membrane. EAAT2, in particular, is involved in the reuptake of glutamate in the brain. This process is crucial for maintaining the balance of glutamate in the synaptic cleft, as excessive glutamate can lead to excitotoxicity, a harmful overactivation of neurons.

Clinical Significance

Alterations in the function or expression of EAAT2 have been implicated in a number of neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, ALS, and epilepsy. In these conditions, reduced EAAT2 activity can lead to an excess of glutamate, contributing to neuronal damage and death.

Research

Research into EAAT2 has focused on understanding its role in neurotransmission and neurological disorders, as well as developing potential therapies that target this transporter. For example, drugs that increase EAAT2 activity could potentially be used to treat conditions associated with glutamate excitotoxicity.

See Also

• Excitatory amino acid transporter
• Glutamate (neurotransmitter)
• Neurotransmission
• Excitotoxicity