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Bhatt M, Di Iacovo A, Romanazzi T, Roseti C, Bossi E. Betaine-The dark knight of the brain. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2023; 133:485-495. [PMID: 36735640 DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.13839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The role of betaine in the liver and kidney has been well documented, even from the cellular and molecular point of view. Despite literature reporting positive effects of betaine supplementation in Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and schizophrenia, the role and function of betaine in the brain are little studied and reviewed. Beneficial effects of betaine in neurodegeneration, excitatory and inhibitory imbalance and against oxidative stress in the central nervous system (CNS) have been collected and analysed to understand the main role of betaine in the brain. There are many 'dark' aspects needed to complete the picture. The understanding of how this osmolyte is transported across neuron and glial cells is also controversial, as the expression levels and functioning of the known protein capable to transport betaine expressed in the brain, betaine-GABA transporter 1 (BGT-1), is itself not well clarified. The reported actions of betaine beyond BGT-1 related to neuronal degeneration and memory impairment are the focus of this work. With this review, we underline the scarcity of detailed molecular and cellular information about betaine action. Consequently, the requirement of detailed focus on and study of the interaction of this molecule with CNS components to sustain the therapeutic use of betaine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manan Bhatt
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
- School of Experimental and Translational Medicine, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Angela Di Iacovo
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
- School of Experimental and Translational Medicine, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Tiziana Romanazzi
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
- School of Experimental and Translational Medicine, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Cristina Roseti
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
- Centre for Neuroscience, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Elena Bossi
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
- Centre for Neuroscience, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
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Shu H, Zhang J, Cheng D, Zhao X, Ma Y, Zhang C, Zhang Y, Jia Z, Liu Z. The Role of Proton-Coupled Amino Acid Transporter 2 (SLC36A2) in Cold-Induced Thermogenesis of Mice. Nutrients 2023; 15:3552. [PMID: 37630739 PMCID: PMC10458080 DOI: 10.3390/nu15163552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Brown adipocytes mainly utilize glucose and fatty acids to produce energy, which play key roles in thermogenesis. Furthermore, brown adipocytes also utilize other substrates, such as amino acids, for energy expenditure in various conditions. Here, we report the new physiological roles of proton-coupled amino acid transporters, SLC36A2 and SLC36A3, on global energy metabolism. The relative mRNA expression levels of both Slc36a2 and Slc36a3 were all highest in brown adipose tissue. We then generated global Slc36a2 and Slc36a3 knockout mice to investigate their functions in metabolism. Neither loss of Slc36a2 nor Slc36a3 affected the body weight and body composition of the mice. Slc36a2 knockout mice exhibited increased oxygen consumption during the daytime. After cold treatment, inhibition of Slc36a2 significantly decreased the mass of brown adipose tissue compared to wildtype mice, while it lowered the expression level of Cpt1a. Moreover, the serum lipid levels and liver mass were also decreased in Slc36a2 knockout mice after cold treatment. On the contrary, Slc36a3 knockout impaired glucose tolerance and up-regulated serum LDL-cholesterol concentration. Thus, SLC36A2 and SLC36A3 play central and different roles in the energy metabolism of the mice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Zhihao Jia
- Cambridge-Suda Genomic Resource Center, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China; (H.S.); (J.Z.); (Y.M.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Zhiwei Liu
- Cambridge-Suda Genomic Resource Center, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China; (H.S.); (J.Z.); (Y.M.); (Y.Z.)
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3
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Osaki A, Aoyama M, Mita M, Hamase K, Yasui M, Sasabe J. Endogenous d-serine exists in the mammalian brain independent of synthesis by serine racemase. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2023; 641:186-191. [PMID: 36535077 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2022.12.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Activation of N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) requires binding of a co-agonist in addition to l-glutamate. d-serine binds to the co-agonist site on GluN1 subunits of NMDARs and modulates glutamatergic neurotransmission. While loss of GluN1 subunits in mice results in neonatal death due to respiratory failure, animals that lack a d-serine synthetic enzyme, serine racemase (SR), show grossly normal growth. However, SR-independent origins of d-serine in the brain remain unclarified. In the present study, we investigated the origin of brain d-serine in mice. Loss of SR significantly reduced d-serine in the cerebral cortex, but a portion of d-serine remained in both neonates and adults. Although d-serine was also produced by intestinal bacteria, germ-free experiments did not influence d-serine levels in the cerebral cortex. In addition, treatment of SR-knockout mice with antibiotics showed a significant reduction of intestinal d-serine, but no reduction in the brain. On the other hand, restriction of dietary intake reduced systemic circulation of d-serine and resulted in a slight decrease of d-serine in the cerebral cortex, but did not account for brain d-serine found in the SR-knockout mice. Therefore, our findings show that endogenous d-serine of non-SR origin exists in the brain. Such previously unrecognized, SR-independent, endogenous d-serine may contribute baseline activity of NMDARs, especially in developing brain, which has minimal SR expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akina Osaki
- Department of Pharmacology, Keio University School of Medicine, 160-8582, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Marie Aoyama
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132, Milano, Italy
| | | | - Kenji Hamase
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University, 812-8582, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Masato Yasui
- Department of Pharmacology, Keio University School of Medicine, 160-8582, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Jumpei Sasabe
- Department of Pharmacology, Keio University School of Medicine, 160-8582, Tokyo, Japan.
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Anderson CMH, Edwards N, Watson AK, Althaus M, Thwaites DT. Reshaping the Binding Pocket of the Neurotransmitter:Solute Symporter (NSS) Family Transporter SLC6A14 (ATB 0,+) Selectively Reduces Access for Cationic Amino Acids and Derivatives. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12101404. [PMID: 36291613 PMCID: PMC9599917 DOI: 10.3390/biom12101404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
SLC6A14 (ATB0,+) is unique among SLC proteins in its ability to transport 18 of the 20 proteinogenic (dipolar and cationic) amino acids and naturally occurring and synthetic analogues (including anti-viral prodrugs and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitors). SLC6A14 mediates amino acid uptake in multiple cell types where increased expression is associated with pathophysiological conditions including some cancers. Here, we investigated how a key position within the core LeuT-fold structure of SLC6A14 influences substrate specificity. Homology modelling and sequence analysis identified the transmembrane domain 3 residue V128 as equivalent to a position known to influence substrate specificity in distantly related SLC36 and SLC38 amino acid transporters. SLC6A14, with and without V128 mutations, was heterologously expressed and function determined by radiotracer solute uptake and electrophysiological measurement of transporter-associated current. Substituting the amino acid residue occupying the SLC6A14 128 position modified the binding pocket environment and selectively disrupted transport of cationic (but not dipolar) amino acids and related NOS inhibitors. By understanding the molecular basis of amino acid transporter substrate specificity we can improve knowledge of how this multi-functional transporter can be targeted and how the LeuT-fold facilitates such diversity in function among the SLC6 family and other SLC amino acid transporters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catriona M. H. Anderson
- School of Natural & Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering & Agriculture, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK
- Correspondence: (C.M.H.A.); (D.T.T.)
| | - Noel Edwards
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Framlington Place, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK
| | - Andrew K. Watson
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Framlington Place, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK
| | - Mike Althaus
- School of Natural & Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering & Agriculture, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK
- Department of Natural Sciences & Institute for Functional Gene Analytics, Bonn-Rhein-Sieg University of Applied Sciences, 53359 Rheinbach, Germany
| | - David T. Thwaites
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Framlington Place, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK
- Correspondence: (C.M.H.A.); (D.T.T.)
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Wang J, Onogi Y, Krueger M, Oeckl J, Karlina R, Singh I, Hauck SM, Feederle R, Li Y, Ussar S. PAT2 regulates vATPase assembly and lysosomal acidification in brown adipocytes. Mol Metab 2022; 61:101508. [PMID: 35513259 PMCID: PMC9114668 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2022.101508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Brown adipocytes play a key role in maintaining body temperature as well as glucose and lipid homeostasis. However, brown adipocytes need to adapt their thermogenic activity and substrate utilization to changes in nutrient availability. Amongst the multiple factors influencing brown adipocyte activity, autophagy is an important regulatory element of thermogenic capacity and activity. Nevertheless, a specific sensing mechanism of extracellular amino acid availability linking autophagy to nutrient availability in brown adipocytes is unknown. METHODS To characterize the role of the amino acid transporter PAT2/SLC36A2 in brown adipocytes, loss or gain of function of PAT2 were studied with respect to differentiation, subcellular localization, lysosomal activity and autophagy. Activity of vATPase was evaluated by quenching of EGFP fused to LC3 or FITC-dextran loaded lysosomes in brown adipocytes upon amino acid starvation, whereas the effect of PAT2 on assembly of the vATPase was investigated by Native-PAGE. RESULTS We show that PAT2 translocates from the plasma membrane to the lysosome in response to amino acid withdrawal. Loss or overexpression of PAT2 impair lysosomal acidification and starvation induced S6K re-phosphorylation, as PAT2 facilitates the assembly of the lysosomal vATPase, by recruitment of the cytoplasmic V1 subunit to the lysosome. CONCLUSION PAT2 is an important sensor of extracellular amino acids and regulator of lysosomal acidification in brown adipocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiefu Wang
- RG Adipocytes & Metabolism, Institute for Diabetes & Obesity, Helmholtz Diabetes Center, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health GmbH, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany; German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), 85764, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Yasuhiro Onogi
- RG Adipocytes & Metabolism, Institute for Diabetes & Obesity, Helmholtz Diabetes Center, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health GmbH, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany; German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), 85764, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Martin Krueger
- Institute for Anatomy, University of Leipzig, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Josef Oeckl
- Chair for Molecular Nutritional Medicine TUM School for Life Sciences,Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Ruth Karlina
- RG Adipocytes & Metabolism, Institute for Diabetes & Obesity, Helmholtz Diabetes Center, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health GmbH, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany; German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), 85764, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Inderjeet Singh
- RG Adipocytes & Metabolism, Institute for Diabetes & Obesity, Helmholtz Diabetes Center, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health GmbH, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany; German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), 85764, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Stefanie M Hauck
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), 85764, Neuherberg, Germany; Research Unit Protein Science, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health GmbH, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Regina Feederle
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), 85764, Neuherberg, Germany; Monoclonal Antibody Core Facility, Institute for Diabetes & Obesity, Helmholtz Diabetes Center, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health GmbH, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Yongguo Li
- Chair for Molecular Nutritional Medicine TUM School for Life Sciences,Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Siegfried Ussar
- RG Adipocytes & Metabolism, Institute for Diabetes & Obesity, Helmholtz Diabetes Center, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health GmbH, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany; German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), 85764, Neuherberg, Germany; Department of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany.
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6
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Du J, Zhu S, Lim RR, Chao JR. Proline metabolism and transport in retinal health and disease. Amino Acids 2021; 53:1789-1806. [PMID: 33871679 PMCID: PMC8054134 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-021-02981-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The retina is one of the most energy-demanding tissues in the human body. Photoreceptors in the outer retina rely on nutrient support from the neighboring retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), a monolayer of epithelial cells that separate the retina and choroidal blood supply. RPE dysfunction or cell death can result in photoreceptor degeneration, leading to blindness in retinal degenerative diseases including some inherited retinal degenerations and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). In addition to having ready access to rich nutrients from blood, the RPE is also supplied with lactate from adjacent photoreceptors. Moreover, RPE can phagocytose lipid-rich outer segments for degradation and recycling on a daily basis. Recent studies show RPE cells prefer proline as a major metabolic substrate, and they are highly enriched for the proline transporter, SLC6A20. In contrast, dysfunctional or poorly differentiated RPE fails to utilize proline. RPE uses proline to fuel mitochondrial metabolism, synthesize amino acids, build the extracellular matrix, fight against oxidative stress, and sustain differentiation. Remarkably, the neural retina rarely imports proline directly, but it uptakes and utilizes intermediates and amino acids derived from proline catabolism in the RPE. Mutations of genes in proline metabolism are associated with retinal degenerative diseases, and proline supplementation is reported to improve RPE-initiated vision loss. This review will cover proline metabolism in RPE and highlight the importance of proline transport and utilization in maintaining retinal metabolism and health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianhai Du
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, 26506, USA. .,Department of Biochemistry, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, 26506, USA. .,One Medical Center Dr, WVU Eye Institute, PO Box 9193, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA.
| | - Siyan Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, 26506, USA.,Department of Biochemistry, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, 26506, USA
| | - Rayne R Lim
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
| | - Jennifer R Chao
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
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Abstract
Plant sap-feeding insects thrive despite feeding exclusively on a diet lacking in essential amino acids. This nutritional deficit is countered through endosymbiotic relationships with microbial symbionts. Nonessential amino acids, vital for microbial symbionts, are utilized by symbiont metabolic pathways and yield essential amino acids required by their eukaryotic hosts. Symbionts are completely dependent on their host to meet nutritional requirements. The endosymbionts are surrounded individually by host-derived symbiosomal membranes and are housed within specialized host bacteriocyte cells. The transport capabilities of the symbiosomal membrane remain unknown. Here, we identify a transport system that mediates a crucial step in this metabolic complementarity: a transporter capable of transporting nonessential amino acids across the symbiosomal membrane of the pea aphid Acyrthosiphon pisum. Plant sap-feeding insects are widespread, having evolved to occupy diverse environmental niches despite exclusive feeding on an impoverished diet lacking in essential amino acids and vitamins. Success depends exquisitely on their symbiotic relationships with microbial symbionts housed within specialized eukaryotic bacteriocyte cells. Each bacteriocyte is packed with symbionts that are individually surrounded by a host-derived symbiosomal membrane representing the absolute host–symbiont interface. The symbiosomal membrane must be a dynamic and selectively permeable structure to enable bidirectional and differential movement of essential nutrients, metabolites, and biosynthetic intermediates, vital for growth and survival of host and symbiont. However, despite this crucial role, the molecular basis of membrane transport across the symbiosomal membrane remains unresolved in all bacteriocyte-containing insects. A transport protein was immunolocalized to the symbiosomal membrane separating the pea aphid Acyrthosiphon pisum from its intracellular symbiont Buchnera aphidicola. The transporter, A. pisum nonessential amino acid transporter 1, or ApNEAAT1 (gene: ACYPI008971), was characterized functionally following heterologous expression in Xenopus oocytes, and mediates both inward and outward transport of small dipolar amino acids (serine, proline, cysteine, alanine, glycine). Electroneutral ApNEAAT1 transport is driven by amino acid concentration gradients and is not coupled to transmembrane ion gradients. Previous metabolite profiling of hemolymph and bacteriocyte, alongside metabolic pathway analysis in host and symbiont, enable prediction of a physiological role for ApNEAAT1 in bidirectional host–symbiont amino acid transfer, supplying both host and symbiont with indispensable nutrients and biosynthetic precursors to facilitate metabolic complementarity.
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Li Y, Sekula P, Wuttke M, Wahrheit J, Hausknecht B, Schultheiss UT, Gronwald W, Schlosser P, Tucci S, Ekici AB, Spiekerkoetter U, Kronenberg F, Eckardt KU, Oefner PJ, Köttgen A. Genome-Wide Association Studies of Metabolites in Patients with CKD Identify Multiple Loci and Illuminate Tubular Transport Mechanisms. J Am Soc Nephrol 2018; 29:1513-1524. [PMID: 29545352 DOI: 10.1681/asn.2017101099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2017] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The kidneys have a central role in the generation, turnover, transport, and excretion of metabolites, and these functions can be altered in CKD. Genetic studies of metabolite concentrations can identify proteins performing these functions.Methods We conducted genome-wide association studies and aggregate rare variant tests of the concentrations of 139 serum metabolites and 41 urine metabolites, as well as their pairwise ratios and fractional excretions in up to 1168 patients with CKD.Results After correction for multiple testing, genome-wide significant associations were detected for 25 serum metabolites, two urine metabolites, and 259 serum and 14 urinary metabolite ratios. These included associations already known from population-based studies. Additional findings included an association for the uremic toxin putrescine and variants upstream of an enzyme catalyzing the oxidative deamination of polyamines (AOC1, P-min=2.4×10-12), a relatively high carrier frequency (2%) for rare deleterious missense variants in ACADM that are collectively associated with serum ratios of medium-chain acylcarnitines (P-burden=6.6×10-16), and associations of a common variant in SLC7A9 with several ratios of lysine to neutral amino acids in urine, including the lysine/glutamine ratio (P=2.2×10-23). The associations of this SLC7A9 variant with ratios of lysine to specific neutral amino acids were much stronger than the association with lysine concentration alone. This finding is consistent with SLC7A9 functioning as an exchanger of urinary cationic amino acids against specific intracellular neutral amino acids at the apical membrane of proximal tubular cells.Conclusions Metabolomic indices of specific kidney functions in genetic studies may provide insight into human renal physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Li
- Institute of Genetic Epidemiology, Department of Biometry, Epidemiology, and Medical Bioinformatics, and
| | - Peggy Sekula
- Institute of Genetic Epidemiology, Department of Biometry, Epidemiology, and Medical Bioinformatics, and
| | - Matthias Wuttke
- Institute of Genetic Epidemiology, Department of Biometry, Epidemiology, and Medical Bioinformatics, and
| | - Judith Wahrheit
- BIOCRATES Life Sciences Aktiengesellschaft, Innsbruck, Austria
| | | | - Ulla T Schultheiss
- Institute of Genetic Epidemiology, Department of Biometry, Epidemiology, and Medical Bioinformatics, and
| | - Wolfram Gronwald
- Institute of Functional Genomics, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany; and
| | - Pascal Schlosser
- Institute of Genetic Epidemiology, Department of Biometry, Epidemiology, and Medical Bioinformatics, and
| | - Sara Tucci
- Department of General Pediatrics, Center for Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Arif B Ekici
- Insitute of Human Genetics, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Ute Spiekerkoetter
- Department of General Pediatrics, Center for Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Florian Kronenberg
- Division of Genetic Epidemiology, Department of Medical Genetics, Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | | | - Peter J Oefner
- Institute of Functional Genomics, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany; and
| | - Anna Köttgen
- Institute of Genetic Epidemiology, Department of Biometry, Epidemiology, and Medical Bioinformatics, and
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Resculpting the binding pocket of APC superfamily LeuT-fold amino acid transporters. Cell Mol Life Sci 2017; 75:921-938. [PMID: 29058016 PMCID: PMC5809530 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-017-2677-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2017] [Revised: 09/14/2017] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Amino acid transporters are essential components of prokaryote and eukaryote cells, possess distinct physiological functions, and differ markedly in substrate specificity. Amino acid transporters can be both drug targets and drug transporters (bioavailability, targeting) with many monogenic disorders resulting from dysfunctional membrane transport. The largest collection of amino acid transporters (including the mammalian SLC6, SLC7, SLC32, SLC36, and SLC38 families), across all kingdoms of life, is within the Amino acid-Polyamine-organoCation (APC) superfamily. The LeuT-fold is a paradigm structure for APC superfamily amino acid transporters and carriers of sugars, neurotransmitters, electrolytes, osmolytes, vitamins, micronutrients, signalling molecules, and organic and fatty acids. Each transporter is specific for a unique sub-set of solutes, specificity being determined by how well a substrate fits into each binding pocket. However, the molecular basis of substrate selectivity remains, by and large, elusive. Using an integrated computational and experimental approach, we demonstrate that a single position within the LeuT-fold can play a crucial role in determining substrate specificity in mammalian and arthropod amino acid transporters within the APC superfamily. Systematic mutation of the amino acid residue occupying the equivalent position to LeuT V104 titrates binding pocket space resulting in dramatic changes in substrate selectivity in exemplar APC amino acid transporters including PAT2 (SLC36A2) and SNAT5 (SLC38A5). Our work demonstrates how a single residue/site within an archetypal structural motif can alter substrate affinity and selectivity within this important superfamily of diverse membrane transporters.
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10
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Price DRG, Wilson ACC, Luetje CW. Proton-dependent glutamine uptake by aphid bacteriocyte amino acid transporter ApGLNT1. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2015; 1848:2085-91. [PMID: 26028424 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2015.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2014] [Revised: 05/09/2015] [Accepted: 05/25/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Aphids house large populations of the gammaproteobacterial symbiont Buchnera aphidicola in specialized bacteriocyte cells. The combined biosynthetic capability of the holobiont (Acyrthosiphon pisum and Buchnera) is sufficient for biosynthesis of all twenty protein coding amino acids, including amino acids that animals alone cannot synthesize; and that are present at low concentrations in A. pisum's plant phloem sap diet. Collaborative holobiont amino acid biosynthesis depends on glutamine import into bacteriocytes, which serves as a nitrogen-rich amino donor for biosynthesis of other amino acids. Recently, we characterized A. pisum glutamine transporter 1 (ApGLNT1), a member of the amino acid/auxin permease family, as the dominant bacteriocyte plasma membrane glutamine transporter. Here we show ApGLNT1 to be structurally and functionally related to mammalian proton-dependent amino acid transporters (PATs 1-4). Using functional expression in Xenopus laevis oocytes, combined with two-electrode voltage clamp electrophysiology we demonstrate that ApGLNT1 is electrogenic and that glutamine induces large inward currents. ApGLNT1 glutamine induced currents are dependent on external glutamine concentration, proton (H+) gradient across the membrane, and membrane potential. Based on these transport properties, ApGLNT1-mediated glutamine uptake into A. pisum bacteriocytes can be regulated by changes in either proton gradients across the plasma membrane or membrane potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel R G Price
- Department of Biology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA.
| | - Alex C C Wilson
- Department of Biology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA.
| | - Charles W Luetje
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA.
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12
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Alexander SPH, Benson HE, Faccenda E, Pawson AJ, Sharman JL, Spedding M, Peters JA, Harmar AJ. The Concise Guide to PHARMACOLOGY 2013/14: transporters. Br J Pharmacol 2013; 170:1706-96. [PMID: 24528242 PMCID: PMC3892292 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The Concise Guide to PHARMACOLOGY 2013/14 provides concise overviews of the key properties of over 2000 human drug targets with their pharmacology, plus links to an open access knowledgebase of drug targets and their ligands (www.guidetopharmacology.org), which provides more detailed views of target and ligand properties. The full contents can be found at http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.12444/full. Transporters are one of the seven major pharmacological targets into which the Guide is divided, with the others being G protein-coupled receptors, ligand-gated ion channels, ion channels, catalytic receptors, nuclear hormone receptors and enzymes. These are presented with nomenclature guidance and summary information on the best available pharmacological tools, alongside key references and suggestions for further reading. A new landscape format has easy to use tables comparing related targets. It is a condensed version of material contemporary to late 2013, which is presented in greater detail and constantly updated on the website www.guidetopharmacology.org, superseding data presented in previous Guides to Receptors and Channels. It is produced in conjunction with NC-IUPHAR and provides the official IUPHAR classification and nomenclature for human drug targets, where appropriate. It consolidates information previously curated and displayed separately in IUPHAR-DB and the Guide to Receptors and Channels, providing a permanent, citable, point-in-time record that will survive database updates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen PH Alexander
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham Medical SchoolNottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Helen E Benson
- The University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of EdinburghEdinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Elena Faccenda
- The University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of EdinburghEdinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Adam J Pawson
- The University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of EdinburghEdinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Joanna L Sharman
- The University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of EdinburghEdinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
| | | | - John A Peters
- Neuroscience Division, Medical Education Institute, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of DundeeDundee, DD1 9SY, UK
| | - Anthony J Harmar
- The University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of EdinburghEdinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
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13
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Vranova V, Lojkova L, Rejsek K, Formanek P. Significance of the natural occurrence of L- versus D-pipecolic acid: a review. Chirality 2013; 25:823-31. [PMID: 24114978 DOI: 10.1002/chir.22237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2013] [Revised: 07/22/2013] [Accepted: 07/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Pipecolic acid naturally occurs in microorganisms, plants, and animals, where it plays many roles, including the interactions between these organisms, and is a key constituent of many natural and synthetic bioactive molecules. This article provides a review of current knowledge on the natural occurrence of pipecolic acid and the known and potential significance of its L- and D-enantiomers in different scientific disciplines. Knowledge gaps with perspectives for future research identified within this article include the roles of the L- versus the D-enantiomer of pipecolic acid in plant resistance, nutrient acquisition, and decontamination of polluted soils, as well as rhizosphere ecology and medical issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerie Vranova
- Mendel University in Brno, Department of Geology and Soil Science, Czech Republic
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14
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Frølund S, Nøhr M, Holm R, Brodin B, Nielsen C. Potential involvement of the proton-coupled amino acid transporter PAT1 (SLC36A1) in the delivery of pharmaceutical agents. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/s1773-2247(13)50046-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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15
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Estradiol inhibits the activity of proton-coupled amino acid transporter PAT1 expressed in Xenopus oocytes. Eur J Pharmacol 2012; 695:34-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2012.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2012] [Revised: 08/09/2012] [Accepted: 08/18/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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16
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Zebisch K, Brandsch M. Transport of L-proline by the proton-coupled amino acid transporter PAT2 in differentiated 3T3-L1 cells. Amino Acids 2012; 44:373-81. [PMID: 22711289 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-012-1340-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2011] [Accepted: 06/04/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Mechanism and substrate specificity of the proton-coupled amino acid transporter 2 (PAT2, SLC36A2) have been studied so far only in heterologous expression systems such as HeLa cells and Xenopus laevis oocytes. In this study, we describe the identification of the first cell line that expresses PAT2. We cultured 3T3-L1 cells for up to 2 weeks and differentiated the cells into adipocytes in supplemented media containing 2 μM rosiglitazone. During the 14 day differentiation period the uptake of the prototype PAT2 substrate L-[(3)H]proline increased ~5-fold. The macro- and microscopically apparent differentiation of 3T3-L1 cells coincided with their H(+) gradient-stimulated uptake of L-[(3)H]proline. Uptake was rapid, independent of a Na(+) gradient but stimulated by an inwardly directed H(+) gradient with maximal uptake occurring at pH 6.0. L-Proline uptake was found to be mediated by a transport system with a Michaelis constant (K(t)) of 130 ± 10 μM and a maximal transport velocity of 4.9 ± 0.2 nmol × 5 min(-1 )mg of protein(-1). Glycine, L-alanine, and L-tryptophan strongly inhibited L-proline uptake indicating that these amino acids also interact with the transport system. It is concluded that 3T3-L1 adipocytes express the H(+)-amino acid cotransport system PAT2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katja Zebisch
- Biozentrum of the Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Weinbergweg 22, 06120 Halle, Germany
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17
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Thwaites DT, Anderson CMH. The SLC36 family of proton-coupled amino acid transporters and their potential role in drug transport. Br J Pharmacol 2012; 164:1802-16. [PMID: 21501141 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01438.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Members of the solute carrier (SLC) 36 family are involved in transmembrane movement of amino acids and derivatives. SLC36 consists of four members. SLC36A1 and SLC36A2 both function as H(+) -coupled amino acid symporters. SLC36A1 is expressed at the luminal surface of the small intestine but is also commonly found in lysosomes in many cell types (including neurones), suggesting that it is a multipurpose carrier with distinct roles in different cells including absorption in the small intestine and as an efflux pathway following intralysosomal protein breakdown. SLC36A1 has a relatively low affinity (K(m) 1-10 mM) for its substrates, which include zwitterionic amino and imino acids, heterocyclic amino acids and amino acid-based drugs and derivatives used experimentally and/or clinically to treat epilepsy, schizophrenia, bacterial infections, hyperglycaemia and cancer. SLC36A2 is expressed at the apical surface of the human renal proximal tubule where it functions in the reabsorption of glycine, proline and hydroxyproline. SLC36A2 also transports amino acid derivatives but has a narrower substrate selectivity and higher affinity (K(m) 0.1-0.7 mM) than SLC36A1. Mutations in SLC36A2 lead to hyperglycinuria and iminoglycinuria. SLC36A3 is expressed only in testes and is an orphan transporter with no known function. SLC36A4 is widely distributed at the mRNA level and is a high-affinity (K(m) 2-3 µM) transporter for proline and tryptophan. We have much to learn about this family of transporters, but from current knowledge, it seems likely that their function will influence the pharmacokinetic profiles of amino acid-based drugs by mediating transport in both the small intestine and kidney.
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Affiliation(s)
- David T Thwaites
- Epithelial Research Group, Institute for Cell & Molecular Biosciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
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18
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Tan BSN, Lonic A, Morris MB, Rathjen PD, Rathjen J. The amino acid transporter SNAT2 mediates l-proline-induced differentiation of ES cells. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2011; 300:C1270-9. [DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00235.2010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
There is an increasing appreciation that amino acids can act as signaling molecules in the regulation of cellular processes through modulation of intracellular cell signaling pathways. In culture, embryonic stem (ES) cells can be differentiated to a second, pluripotent cell population, early primitive ectoderm-like cells in response to biological activities within the conditioned medium MEDII. The amino acid l-proline has been identified as a component of MEDII required for ES cell differentiation. Here, we define the primary l-proline transporter on ES and early primitive ectoderm-like cells as sodium-coupled neutral amino acid transporter 2 (SNAT2). SNAT2 uptake of l-proline can be inhibited by the addition of millimolar concentrations of other substrates. The addition of excess amino acids was used to regulate the uptake of l-proline by ES cells, and the effect on differentiation was analyzed. The ability of SNAT2 substrates, but not other amino acids, to prevent changes in morphology, gene expression, and differentiation kinetics suggested that l-proline uptake through SNAT2 was required for ES cell differentiation. These data reveal an unexpected role for amino acid uptake and the amino acid transporter SNAT2 in regulation of pluripotent cells in culture and provides a number of specific, inexpensive, and nontoxic culture additives with the potential to improve the quality of ES cell culture.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ana Lonic
- School of Molecular and Biomedical Science, University of Adelaide, South Australia; and
- Australian Stem Cell Centre, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael B. Morris
- School of Molecular and Biomedical Science, University of Adelaide, South Australia; and
- Australian Stem Cell Centre, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter D. Rathjen
- Department of Zoology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria
- School of Molecular and Biomedical Science, University of Adelaide, South Australia; and
- Australian Stem Cell Centre, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joy Rathjen
- Department of Zoology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria
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19
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Goberdhan DCI. Intracellular amino acid sensing and mTORC1-regulated growth: new ways to block an old target? CURRENT OPINION IN INVESTIGATIONAL DRUGS (LONDON, ENGLAND : 2000) 2010; 11:1360-1367. [PMID: 21154118 PMCID: PMC3044466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) complex 1 (mTORC1) is a multicomponent, nutrient-sensitive protein that is implicated in a wide range of major human diseases. mTORC1 responds to both growth factors and changes in local amino acid levels. Until recently, the intracellular amino acid-sensing mechanism that regulates mTORC1 had remained unexplored. However, studies in human cells in culture have demonstrated that in response to amino acid stimulation, mTOR (a conserved member of the PI3K superfamily) is shuttled to late endosomal and lysosomal compartments, where it binds the Ragulator-Rag complex and is assembled into active mTORC1. Members of the proton-assisted amino acid transporter (PAT/SLC36) family have been identified as critical components of the amino acid-sensing system that regulates mTORC1 present in endosomal and lysosomal membranes. These discoveries not only highlight several new potential drug targets that could impact selectively on mTORC1 activity in cancer cells, but also provide novel insights into the strategies used by such cells to outcompete their neighbors in growth factor- and nutrient-depleted conditions. In this review, recent mechanistic insights into how mTORC1 activity is controlled by amino acids and the potential for the selective targeting this regulatory input are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah C I Goberdhan
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, UK.
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20
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Pillai SM, Meredith D. SLC36A4 (hPAT4) is a high affinity amino acid transporter when expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes. J Biol Chem 2010; 286:2455-60. [PMID: 21097500 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m110.172403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The SLC36 family of transporters consists of four genes, two of which, SLC36A1 and SLC36A2, have been demonstrated to code for human proton-coupled amino acid transporters or hPATs. Here we report the characterization of the fourth member of the family, SLC36A4 or hPAT4, which when expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes also encodes a plasma membrane amino acid transporter, but one that is not proton-coupled and has a very high substrate affinity for the amino acids proline and tryptophan. hPAT4 in Xenopus oocytes mediated sodium-independent, electroneutral uptake of [(3)H]proline, with the highest rate of uptake when the uptake medium pH was 7.4 and an affinity of 3.13 μM. Tryptophan was also an excellently transported substrate with a similarly high affinity (1.72 μM). Other amino acids that inhibited [(3)H]proline were isoleucine (K(i) 0.23 mM), glutamine (0.43 mM), methionine (0.44 mM), and alanine (1.48 mM), and with lower affinity, glycine, threonine, and cysteine (K(i) >5 mM for all). Of the amino acids directly tested for transport, only proline, tryptophan, and alanine showed significant uptake, whereas glycine and cysteine did not. Of the non-proteogenic amino acids and drugs tested, only sarcosine produced inhibition (K(i) 1.09 mM), whereas γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), β-alanine, L-Dopa, D-serine, and δ-aminolevulinic acid were without effect on [(3)H]proline uptake. This characterization of hPAT4 as a very high affinity/low capacity non-proton-coupled amino acid transporter raises questions about its physiological role, especially as the transport characteristics of hPAT4 are very similar to the Drosophila orthologue PATH, an amino acid "transceptor" that plays a role in nutrient sensing.
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21
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Edwards N, Anderson CMH, Gatfield KM, Jevons MP, Ganapathy V, Thwaites DT. Amino acid derivatives are substrates or non-transported inhibitors of the amino acid transporter PAT2 (slc36a2). BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2010; 1808:260-70. [PMID: 20691150 PMCID: PMC3000476 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2010.07.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2010] [Revised: 07/13/2010] [Accepted: 07/28/2010] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The H+-coupled amino acid transporter PAT2 (SLC36A2) transports the amino acids proline, glycine, alanine and hydroxyproline. A physiological role played by PAT2 in amino acid reabsorption in the renal proximal tubule is demonstrated by mutations in SLC36A2 that lead to an iminoglycinuric phenotype (imino acid and glycine uria) in humans. A number of proline, GABA and tryptophan derivatives were examined to determine if they function either as transported substrates or non-transported inhibitors of PAT2. The compounds were investigated following heterologous expression of rat PAT2 in Xenopus laevis oocytes. PAT2 function was characterised by: radiotracer uptake and competition (cis-inhibition) studies; radiotracer efflux and trans-stimulation; and measurement of substrate-induced positive inward current by two-electrode voltage-clamp. In general, the proline derivatives appeared to be transported substrates and the relative ability to induce current flow was closely related to the inhibitory effects on PAT2-mediated l-[3H]proline uptake. In contrast, certain heterocyclic GABA derivatives (e.g. l-pipecolic acid) were translocated only slowly. Finally, the tryptophan derivatives inhibited PAT2 function but did not undergo transport. l-Proline uptake was inhibited by 5-hydroxy-l-tryptophan (IC50 1.6 ± 0.4 mM), α-methyl-d,l-tryptophan (3.5 ± 1.5 mM), l-tryptophan, 1-methyl-l-tryptophan and indole-3-propionic acid. Although neither 5-hydroxy-l-tryptophan nor α-methyl-d,l-tryptophan were able to elicit inward current in PAT2-expressing oocytes both reduced the current evoked by l-proline. 5-Hydroxy-l-tryptophan and α-methyl-d,l-tryptophan were unable to trans-stimulate l-proline efflux from PAT2-expressing oocytes, confirming that the two compounds act as non-transported blockers of PAT2. These two tryptophan derivatives should prove valuable experimental tools in future investigations of the physiological roles of PAT2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noel Edwards
- Epithelial Research Group, Institute for Cell & Molecular Biosciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK
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22
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Evans AM, Aimanova KG, Gill SS. Characterization of a blood-meal-responsive proton-dependent amino acid transporter in the disease vector, Aedes aegypti. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 212:3263-71. [PMID: 19801431 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.029553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
After anautogenous mosquitoes ingest the required blood meal, proteins in it are rapidly cleaved, yielding a large pool of amino acids. Transport of these amino acids into gut epithelial cells and their subsequent translocation into other tissues is critical for oogenesis and other physiological processes. We have identified a proton amino acid transporter (PAT) in Aedes aegypti (AaePAT1, AAEL007191) which facilitates this transport and is expressed in epithelial cell membranes of larval caecae and the adult midgut. AaePAT1 encodes a 475 amino acid protein showing high similarity to Anopheles gambiae AGAP009896, Culex pipiens CPIJ011438 and Drosophila melanogaster CG7888. When expressed in Xenopus oocytes the transport kinetics showed AaePAT1 is a low affinity transporter with low substrate specificity, having Km and Vmax values of about 7.2 mmol l(-1) and 69 pmol oocyte(-1) min(-1), respectively, for glutamine. A number of other amino acids are also transported by this PAT. In female adult midgut, AaePAT1 transcript levels were induced after ingestion of a blood meal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy M Evans
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
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23
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Blot A, Billups D, Bjørkmo M, Quazi AZ, Uwechue NM, Chaudhry FA, Billups B. Functional expression of two system A glutamine transporter isoforms in rat auditory brainstem neurons. Neuroscience 2009; 164:998-1008. [PMID: 19751803 PMCID: PMC2789247 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2009.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2009] [Revised: 08/26/2009] [Accepted: 09/04/2009] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Glutamine plays multiple roles in the CNS, including metabolic functions and production of the neurotransmitters glutamate and GABA. It has been proposed to be taken up into neurons via a variety of membrane transport systems, including system A, which is a sodium-dependent electrogenic amino acid transporter system. In this study, we investigate glutamine transport by application of amino acids to individual principal neurons of the medial nucleus of the trapezoid body (MNTB) in acutely isolated rat brain slices. A glutamine transport current was studied in patch-clamped neurons, which had the electrical and pharmacological properties of system A: it was sodium-dependent, had a non-reversing current-voltage relationship, was activated by proline, occluded by N-(methylamino)isobutyric acid (MeAIB), and was unaffected by 2-aminobicyclo-[2.2.1]-heptane-2-carboxylic acid (BCH). Additionally, we examined the expression of different system A transporter isoforms using immunocytochemical staining with antibodies raised against system A transporter 1 and 2 (SAT1 and SAT2). Our results indicate that both isoforms are expressed in MNTB principal neurons, and demonstrate that functional system A transporters are present in the plasma membrane of neurons. Since system A transport is highly regulated by a number of cellular signaling mechanisms and glutamine then goes on to activate other pathways, the study of these transporters in situ gives an indication of the mechanisms of neuronal glutamine supply as well as points of regulation of neurotransmitter production, cellular signaling and metabolism in the native neuronal environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Blot
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1PD, UK
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24
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Nickel A, Klein U, Weitz D, Daniel H. L-Proline transport into renal OK epithelial cells: a second renal proline transport system is induced by amino acid deprivation. Amino Acids 2009; 38:753-61. [PMID: 19333719 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-009-0280-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2008] [Accepted: 03/13/2009] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Influx of [(3)H]-L-proline into renal OK cells revealed that basal transport was mediated by the transporter SIT1. When cells were submitted for 8 h to amino acid deprivation, uptake of L-proline was now dominated by a low-affinity system with an apparent K (m) of 4.4 +/- 0.6 mM and a V (max) of 10.2 +/- 0.6 nmol/mg of protein/min operating in addition to the high-affinity SIT1 system with a K (m) of 0.12 +/- 0.01 mM and a V (max) of 0.28 +/- 0.04 nmol/mg of protein/min. The low- and high-affinity proline transporting systems were sensitive to inhibitors of JNK and PI-3 kinases, whereas a GSK-3 inhibitor affected only the upregulated transport system. Ion-replacement studies and experiments assessing substrate specificities for both systems provided strong evidence that SNAT2, that showed two- to threefold increased mRNA levels, is the responsible transporter mediating the increased proline influx under conditions of amino acid deprivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Nickel
- Molecular Nutrition Unit, Technical University of Munich, Am Forum 5, 85350 Freising-Weihenstephan, Germany
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25
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Abstract
The beta-alanine carrier was characterized functionally in the 1960s to 1980s at the luminal surface of the ileal mucosal wall and is a Na(+)- and Cl(-)-dependent transporter of a number of essential and non-essential cationic and dipolar amino acids including lysine, arginine and leucine. beta-Alanine carrier-like function has not been demonstrated by any solute carrier transport system identified at the molecular level. A series of experiments were designed to determine whether solute carrier SLC6A14 is the molecular correlate of the intestinal beta-alanine carrier, perhaps the last of the classical intestinal amino acid transport systems to be identified at the molecular level. Following expression of the human SLC6A14 transporter in Xenopus laevis oocytes, the key functional characteristics of the beta-alanine carrier, identified previously in situ in ileum, were demonstrated for the first time. The transport system is both Na(+) and Cl(-) dependent, can transport non-alpha-amino acids such as beta-alanine with low affinity, and has a higher affinity for dipolar and cationic amino acids such as leucine and lysine. N-methylation of its substrates reduces the affinity for transport. These observations confirm the hypothesis that the SLC6A14 gene encodes the transport protein known as the beta-alanine carrier which, due to its broad substrate specificity, is likely to play an important role in absorption of essential nutrients and drugs in the distal regions of the human gastrointestinal tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catriona M H Anderson
- Institute for Cell & Molecular Biosciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK
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26
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Bröer S. Amino acid transport across mammalian intestinal and renal epithelia. Physiol Rev 2008; 88:249-86. [PMID: 18195088 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00018.2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 614] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The transport of amino acids in kidney and intestine is critical for the supply of amino acids to all tissues and the homeostasis of plasma amino acid levels. This is illustrated by a number of inherited disorders affecting amino acid transport in epithelial cells, such as cystinuria, lysinuric protein intolerance, Hartnup disorder, iminoglycinuria, dicarboxylic aminoaciduria, and some other less well-described disturbances of amino acid transport. The identification of most epithelial amino acid transporters over the past 15 years allows the definition of these disorders at the molecular level and provides a clear picture of the functional cooperation between transporters in the apical and basolateral membranes of mammalian epithelial cells. Transport of amino acids across the apical membrane not only makes use of sodium-dependent symporters, but also uses the proton-motive force and the gradient of other amino acids to efficiently absorb amino acids from the lumen. In the basolateral membrane, antiporters cooperate with facilitators to release amino acids without depleting cells of valuable nutrients. With very few exceptions, individual amino acids are transported by more than one transporter, providing backup capacity for absorption in the case of mutational inactivation of a transport system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Bröer
- School of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia.
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27
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Coles JA, Martiel JL, Laskowska K. A glia-neuron alanine/ammonium shuttle is central to energy metabolism in bee retina. J Physiol 2008; 586:2077-91. [PMID: 18276731 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2007.148734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been proposed that glial cells may supply carbon fuel to neurons and also that there are fluxes of ammonium from neurons to glia. We have investigated both these proposals in Apis retinal slices, in which virtually all the mitochondria are in the photoreceptor neurons. Normally the superfusate contained no substrate of energy metabolism; addition of glucose or alanine did not increase oxygen consumption (QO2), confirming that the neurons received adequate substrate from glycogen in the glia. 1,4-Dideoxy-1,4-imino-D-arabinitol (DAB, 100 microm), an inhibitor of glycogen phosphorylase, progressively decreased QO2. This decrease was reversed by alanine but not glucose. Ammonium-sensitive microelectrodes did not detect significant extracellular [NH(4)(+)] ([NH(4)(+)](e)) in slices superfused with normal superfusate. Removal of Cl(-), necessary for cotransport of NH(4)(+) into the glia, increased [NH(4)(+)](e) so that at the end of 2 min photostimulation mean [NH(4)(+)](e) was 0.442 mM (S.E.M. = 0.082 mM, n = 16). In 0 Cl(-), [NH(4)(+)](e) was reduced by 2-(methylamino)isobutyrate (MeAIB) an inhibitor of alanine transport. MeAIB also blocked oxidation of alanine in the presence of DAB, but did not decrease QO2 in normal superfusate. Lactate (l and d) and pyruvate (but not glucose) increased QO2 in DAB and decreased [NH(4)(+)](e) in 0 Cl(-). These results strengthen the evidence that in superfused retinal slices, glucose is metabolized exclusively in the glia, which supply alanine to the neurons, and that ammonium returns to the glia. They also show that another fuel (perhaps lactate) can be supplied by the glia to the neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan A Coles
- GIN, Equipe 5, Université Joseph Fourier, Site Santé de la Merci, F-38706 La Tronche cedex, France.
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28
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Abstract
Inherited aminoacidurias are caused by defective amino-acid transport through renal (reabsorption) and in many cases also small intestinal epithelia (absorption). Recently, many of the genes causing this abnormal transport have been molecularly identified. In this review, we summarize the latest findings in the clinical and molecular aspects concerning the principal aminoacidurias, cystinuria, lysinuric protein intolerance, Hartnup disorder, iminoglycinuria, and dicarboxylic aminoaciduria. Signs, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, causative or candidate genes, functional characterization of the encoded transporters, and animal models are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M R Camargo
- Institute of Physiology and Center for Integrative Human Physiology (ZIHP), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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29
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Drgonova J, Liu QR, Hall FS, Krieger RM, Uhl GR. Deletion of v7-3 (SLC6A15) transporter allows assessment of its roles in synaptosomal proline uptake, leucine uptake and behaviors. Brain Res 2007; 1183:10-20. [PMID: 17931606 PMCID: PMC2211565 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2007.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2007] [Revised: 08/23/2007] [Accepted: 09/04/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
V7-3 (SLC6A15) is the prototype for a gene subfamily whose members have sequence homologies to classical Na+- and Cl(-)-dependent neurotransmitter transporters but display unusual features that include characteristic large fourth extracellular loops. Interest in v7-3 has been increased by the elucidation of its expression in neurons located in cerebral cortex, hippocampus, cerebellum, midbrain and olfactory bulb. To help clarify the role of v7-3 in brain functions, we have created and characterized v7-3 knockout mice. These mice lack functional v7-3 protein but are viable and fertile. While our studies were in progress, v7-3 expression was reported to confer transport of proline and branched-chain amino acids in in vitro expression systems [Takanaga, H., Mackenzie, B., Peng, J.B., Hediger, M.A., 2005b. Characterization of a branched-chain amino-acid transporter SBAT1 (SLC6A15) that is expressed in human brain. Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 337, 892-900; Broer, A., Tietze, N., Kowalczuk, S., Chubb, S., Munzinger, M., Bak, L.K., Broer, S., 2006. The orphan transporter v7-3 (slc6a15) is a Na+-dependent neutral amino acid transporter (B0AT2). Biochem. J. 393, 421-430]. Assessment of amino acid uptake into cortical synaptosomes of v7-3 knockouts identified 15% and 40% reductions in sodium-dependent proline and leucine transport, respectively, compared to wild type controls. Despite these biochemical changes, v7-3 knockout mice demonstrate only modest alterations in rotarod performance with aging and lack reproducible alterations in other motor, memory, anxiety or olfactory tests. Compensation for the lack of v7-3 via other amino acid carriers is likely to leave v7-3 knockouts without gross behavioral manifestations. The current results place v7-3 in the context of other brain transporters that accumulate proline and branched-chain amino acids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Drgonova
- Molecular Neurobiology Branch, NIDA, NIH, 333 Cassell Drive, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
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Thwaites DT, Anderson CMH. H+-coupled nutrient, micronutrient and drug transporters in the mammalian small intestine. Exp Physiol 2007; 92:603-19. [PMID: 17468205 PMCID: PMC2803310 DOI: 10.1113/expphysiol.2005.029959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 151] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The H(+)-electrochemical gradient was originally considered as a driving force for solute transport only across cellular membranes of bacteria, plants and yeast. However, in the mammalian small intestine, a H(+)-electrochemical gradient is present at the epithelial brush-border membrane in the form of an acid microclimate. Over recent years, a large number of H(+)-coupled cotransport mechanisms have been identified at the luminal membrane of the mammalian small intestine. These transporters are responsible for the initial stage in absorption of a remarkable variety of essential and non-essential nutrients and micronutrients, including protein digestion products (di/tripeptides and amino acids), vitamins, short-chain fatty acids and divalent metal ions. Proton-coupled cotransporters expressed at the mammalian small intestinal brush-border membrane include: the di/tripeptide transporter PepT1 (SLC15A1); the proton-coupled amino-acid transporter PAT1 (SLC36A1); the divalent metal transporter DMT1 (SLC11A2); the organic anion transporting polypeptide OATP2B1 (SLC02B1); the monocarboxylate transporter MCT1 (SLC16A1); the proton-coupled folate transporter PCFT (SLC46A1); the sodium-glucose linked cotransporter SGLT1 (SLC5A1); and the excitatory amino acid carrier EAAC1 (SLC1A1). Emerging research demonstrates that the optimal intestinal absorptive capacity of certain H(+)-coupled cotransporters (PepT1 and PAT1) is dependent upon function of the brush-border Na(+)-H(+) exchanger NHE3 (SLC9A3). The high oral bioavailability of a large number of pharmaceutical compounds results, in part, from absorptive transport via the same H(+)-coupled cotransporters. Drugs undergoing H(+)-coupled cotransport across the intestinal brush-border membrane include those used to treat bacterial infections, hypercholesterolaemia, hypertension, hyperglycaemia, viral infections, allergies, epilepsy, schizophrenia, rheumatoid arthritis and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- David T Thwaites
- Epithelial Research Group, Institute for Cell & Molecular Biosciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Framlington Place, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK.
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Thwaites DT, Anderson CMH. Deciphering the mechanisms of intestinal imino (and amino) acid transport: The redemption of SLC36A1. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2007; 1768:179-97. [PMID: 17123464 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2006.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2006] [Revised: 09/26/2006] [Accepted: 10/02/2006] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The absorption of zwitterionic imino and amino acids, and related drugs, is an essential function of the small intestinal epithelium. This review focuses on the physiological roles of transporters recently identified at the molecular level, in particular SLC36A1, by identifying how they relate to the classical epithelial imino and amino acid transporters characterised in mammalian small intestine in the 1960s-1990s. SLC36A1 transports a number of D- and L-imino and amino acids, beta- and gamma-amino acids and orally-active neuromodulatory and antibacterial agents. SLC36A1 (or PAT1) functions as a proton-coupled imino and amino acid symporter in cooperation with the Na+/H+ exchanger NHE3 (SLC9A3) to produce the imino acid carrier identified in rat small intestine in the 1960s but subsequently ignored because of confusion with the IMINO transporter. However, it is the sodium/imino and amino acid cotransporter SLC6A20 which corresponds to the betaine carrier (identified in hamster, 1960s) and IMINO transporter (identified in rabbit and guinea pig, 1980s). This review summarises evidence for expression of SLC36A1 and SLC6A20 in human small intestine, highlights the differences in functional characteristics of the imino acid carrier and IMINO transporter, and explains the confusion surrounding these two distinct transport systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- David T Thwaites
- Epithelial Research Group, Institute for Cell and Molecular Biosciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Framlington Place, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK.
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Metzner L, Neubert K, Brandsch M. Substrate specificity of the amino acid transporter PAT1. Amino Acids 2006; 31:111-7. [PMID: 16699824 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-005-0314-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2005] [Accepted: 12/09/2005] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The proton coupled amino acid transporter PAT1 expressed in intestine, brain, and other organs accepts L- and D-proline, glycine, and L-alanine but also pharmaceutically active amino acid derivatives such as 3-amino-1-propanesulfonic acid, L-azetidine-2-carboxylic acid, and cis-4-hydroxy-D-proline as substrates. We systematically analyzed the structural requirements for PAT1 substrates by testing 87 amino acids, proline homologs, indoles, and derivatives. Affinity data and effects on membrane potential were determined using Caco-2 cells. For aliphatic amino acids, a blocked carboxyl group, the distance between amino and carboxyl group, and the position of the hydroxyl group are affinity limiting factors. Methylation of the amino group enhances substrate affinity. Hetero atoms in the proline template are well tolerated. Aromatic alpha-amino acids display low affinity. PAT1 interacts strongly with heterocyclic aromatic acids containing an indole scaffold. The structural requirements of PAT1 substrates elucidated in this study will be useful for the development of prodrugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Metzner
- Membrane Transport Group, Biozentrum, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
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Brandsch M. Transport of L-proline, L-proline-containing peptides and related drugs at mammalian epithelial cell membranes. Amino Acids 2006; 31:119-36. [PMID: 16622594 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-006-0307-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2005] [Accepted: 02/22/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Membrane transport of L-proline has received considerable attention in basic and pharmaceutical research recently. Of the most recently cloned members of the solute carrier family, two are "proline transporters". The amino acid transporter PAT1, expressed in intestine, kidney, brain and other organs, mediates the uptake of proline and derivatives in a pH gradient-dependent manner. The Na(+)-dependent proline transporter SIT1, cloned in 2005, exhibits the properties of the long-sought classical IMINO system. Proline-containing peptides are of interest for several reasons. Many biologically important peptide sequences contain highly conserved proline residues. Xaa-Pro peptides are very often resistant to enzymatic hydrolysis and display, in contrast to Pro-Xaa peptides, a high affinity to the H(+)/peptide cotransporter PEPT1 which is expressed in intestinal, renal, lung and biliary duct epithelial cells. Furthermore, several orally available drugs are recognized by PEPT1 as Xaa-Pro analogues due to their sterical resemblance to small peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Brandsch
- Membrane Transport Group, Biozentrum, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany.
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