SLC7Rs

SLC7Rs, also known as solute carrier family 7 transporters, are a group of proteins involved in the transport of various amino acids and other molecules across cell membranes. These transporters are crucial for a wide range of physiological processes, including nutrient uptake, neurotransmission, and cellular homeostasis. The SLC7A gene family comprises several distinct members, each with specific substrate preferences and cellular localization. For example, some SLC7Rs are heterodimeric transporters, requiring association with a light chain subunit (like CD98hc) to become functional. Others function as homodimers or monomers.

The functions of SLC7Rs are diverse. They play a significant role in the absorption of essential amino acids in the intestine and reabsorption in the kidney. In the brain, certain SLC7Rs are involved in the uptake of neurotransmitters like glutamate and GABA, influencing neuronal signaling. Dysregulation of SLC7R function has been implicated in various diseases, including certain types of cancer, neurological disorders, and metabolic conditions. Research into SLC7Rs continues to uncover their complex roles in health and disease, highlighting their potential as therapeutic targets.