SLC38A5


Description

The SLC38A5 (solute carrier family 38 member 5) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome X.

SLC38A5 is a protein that transports neutral amino acids such as glutamine, asparagine, histidine, serine, alanine, and glycine across cell membranes. It is a sodium-coupled transporter, meaning it requires sodium ions to function. SLC38A5 does not transport charged amino acids, imino acids, or N-alkylated amino acids. The gene encoding SLC38A5 undergoes alternative splicing, resulting in multiple transcript variants, although the full-length nature of some variants remains undetermined.

SLC38A5 is a symporter that transports neutral amino acids and sodium ions into cells, coupled with the export of protons. It plays a role in releasing L-glutamine and glycine from astroglial cells, potentially contributing to the glutamate/GABA-L-glutamine cycle and NMDA receptor activation. Additionally, SLC38A5 is involved in L-glutamine uptake in the retina, particularly in ganglion and Mueller cells, participating in the retinal glutamate-glutamine cycle. The transport activity is pH sensitive, tolerant to lithium ions, and functions in both directions, associated with large uncoupled proton fluxes. The transport is electroneutral, involving the co-transport of one sodium ion and the antiport of one proton. SLC38A5 may play a significant role in regulating hepatic glutamine flux.

SLC38A5 is also known as JM24, SN2, SNAT5, pp7194.

Associated Diseases



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