SLC1A2
Description
The SLC1A2 (solute carrier family 1 member 2) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 11.
SLC1A2, also known as EAAT2 and GLT-1, is a protein that transports the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate from the synaptic cleft in the central nervous system. This is crucial for proper synaptic activation and to prevent neuronal damage from excessive glutamate receptor activation. EAAT2 is responsible for over 90% of glutamate reuptake in the brain. Mutations and decreased expression of this protein are linked to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The drug riluzole, used to treat ALS, upregulates EAAT2. The antibiotic ceftriaxone also enhances the expression of EAAT2, leading to reduced glutamate activity. Ceftriaxone has been shown to reduce tolerance to opiates and other drugs of abuse.
SLC1A2 is a sodium-dependent, high-affinity amino acid transporter that mediates the uptake of L-glutamate, L-aspartate, and D-aspartate. It functions as a symporter, transporting one amino acid molecule along with two or three Na+ ions and one proton, while concurrently counter-transporting one K+ ion. SLC1A2 also mediates Cl- flux independently of amino acid transport, preventing the accumulation of negative charges due to aspartate and Na+ symport. This protein is essential for the rapid removal of released glutamate from the synaptic cleft, thereby terminating the postsynaptic action of glutamate.
SLC1A2 is also known as DEE41, EAAT2, EIEE41, GLT-1, GLT1, HBGT.
