Monocarboxylate transporter 10

Ideogram human chromosome 6

Monocarboxylate Transporter 10 (MCT10), also known as Solute Carrier Family 16 Member 10 (SLC16A10), is a protein that in humans is encoded by the SLC16A10 gene. MCT10 is part of the solute carrier family, specifically the monocarboxylate transporters, which are integral membrane proteins facilitating the transport of monocarboxylates across cell membranes. These substances include lactic acid, ketone bodies, and pyruvate, which are crucial for energy metabolism and various metabolic pathways.

Function

MCT10 is primarily involved in the transport of aromatic amino acids across the cell membrane. Unlike other members of the monocarboxylate transporter family, which mainly transport lactate and ketone bodies, MCT10 has a high affinity for tyrosine, tryptophan, and other aromatic amino acids. This specificity suggests a unique role for MCT10 in amino acid metabolism, potentially linking it to neurotransmitter synthesis and metabolic diseases.

Gene and Expression

The SLC16A10 gene is located on chromosome 6q16.1 in humans. The expression of MCT10 is tissue-specific, with higher levels observed in the liver, kidney, and pancreas. This distribution pattern indicates its significant role in the metabolism and detoxification processes in these organs.

Clinical Significance

Alterations in the expression or function of MCT10 can have clinical implications. Given its role in amino acid transport, mutations or dysregulation of MCT10 may contribute to metabolic disorders or affect drug disposition, especially for medications that resemble aromatic amino acids in structure. Furthermore, the transporter's expression in the thyroid gland suggests a potential involvement in thyroid hormone metabolism, with implications for thyroid disorders.

Research Directions

Research on MCT10 is ongoing, with studies focusing on its precise physiological roles and potential as a therapeutic target. For instance, understanding how MCT10 influences amino acid and thyroid hormone metabolism could lead to new treatments for metabolic and endocrine diseases. Additionally, its role in drug disposition could inform the development of strategies to optimize drug therapy based on individual variations in MCT10 function.

See Also

• Monocarboxylate transporter
• Solute carrier family
• Amino acid transporter
• Metabolic pathway