Peptide transporter 1

Peptide transporter 1 (PEPT1) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the SLC15A1 gene. It is a member of the proton-coupled oligopeptide transporter family, which plays a crucial role in the absorption of dietary proteins and drug peptides.

Function

PEPT1 is an integral membrane protein that mediates the uptake of di- and tri-peptides from the lumen of the small intestine into enterocytes. It functions as a symporter, coupling the transport of peptides with the transport of protons (H+), which provides the driving force for peptide uptake.

Structure

PEPT1 is a 708-amino acid protein with 12 predicted transmembrane domains. The N- and C-termini of the protein are located intracellularly. The protein has a large extracellular loop between the ninth and tenth transmembrane domains, which is glycosylated and may be involved in substrate recognition.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the SLC15A1 gene can lead to a reduction in PEPT1 function, which can affect the absorption of certain drugs and nutrients. PEPT1 is also a target for drug delivery, as many drugs are designed as prodrugs that are absorbed via PEPT1.

See also

• SLC15A2
• Proton-coupled oligopeptide transporter
• Prodrug

External links

• Human SLC15A1 gene details page in the NCBI Gene database