Neutral amino acid transporter B(0)

Neutral amino acid transporter B(0) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the SLC1A5 gene. This protein is also commonly known as ASCT2, an acronym for Alanine, Serine, Cysteine Transporter 2.

Function

The SLC1A5 gene is a member of the solute carrier family, specifically the amino acid transporter family. This family is responsible for the transport of amino acids across the cell membrane. The SLC1A5 protein is a sodium-dependent neutral amino acid transporter that favors the transport of alanine, serine, and cysteine, but it can also transport other neutral amino acids.

Clinical Significance

Alterations in the SLC1A5 gene have been associated with various cancer types. The overexpression of this gene has been observed in breast cancer, prostate cancer, lung cancer, and colorectal cancer, among others. This overexpression is believed to be due to the increased demand for amino acids in rapidly proliferating cancer cells. Inhibitors of SLC1A5 are currently being studied as potential cancer therapies.

Structure

The SLC1A5 protein is a transmembrane protein, meaning it spans the entire cell membrane. It has 11 transmembrane domains and a large extracellular loop between the third and fourth transmembrane domains. The protein's structure allows it to bind to amino acids and transport them across the cell membrane.

See Also

• Solute carrier family
• Amino acid transporter
• Cancer