Amino acid transporter system ASC (ASC transporter)

Amino acid transporter system ASC refers primarily to a family of sodium-dependent neutral amino acid transporters that preferentially mediate the exchange of small neutral amino acids—including alanine, serine, cysteine, and threonine—across the plasma membrane[2][5]. The system consists of two main subtypes: **ASCT1 (SLC1A4)** and **ASCT2 (SLC1A5)**, which share partial substrate overlap and belong to the solute carrier (SLC) superfamily[1][2]. ASCT1 is ubiquitously expressed with a notable role in CNS neurotransmitter regulation and brain development[2], while ASCT2 is highly expressed in rapidly proliferating cells and is upregulated in many cancers, fulfilling increased glutamine demands[1]. System ASC transporters are considered important therapeutic targets, especially in oncology and neurobiology, due to their central roles in nutrient uptake, neurotransmission, and cellular metabolism[1][3][2]. Experimental inhibitors of ASCT2 are being studied as anticancer agents and modulators of neuronal function; however, broad biological activity raises challenges for selective targeting and safety[1][3].

Other names

Alanine-serine-cysteine transporterASCTAlanine-serine-cysteine transporter 1 (ASCT1; SLC1A4)Alanine-serine-cysteine transporter 2 (ASCT2; SLC1A5)Asc-type amino acid transporter 1SLC7A10 (Asc-1; mostly CNS)Neutral amino acid transporter A

Competitive inhibition of substrate binding; Blocking glutamine or neutral amino acid transport; Modulation of neurotransmitter levels