Canalicular multispecific organic anion transporter 2 (ABCC3) (ABCC3)

Canalicular multispecific organic anion transporter 2 (ABCC3), also known as Multidrug resistance-associated protein 3 (MRP3), is a member of the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter superfamily [1][2]. It is primarily localized to the basolateral membrane of hepatocytes, as well as in the intestine, kidney, and gallbladder [2][4]. ABCC3 functions as an ATP-dependent efflux pump that transports a wide range of organic anions, including glucuronide and glutathione conjugates, bile acids, and various xenobiotics [1][4]. In the liver, it serves as an important alternative pathway for the export of bile acids and bilirubin conjugates into the systemic circulation when canalicular transport is impaired, such as in cholestatic conditions or Dubin-Johnson syndrome [4][10]. In the context of oncology, ABCC3 is frequently overexpressed in various cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma, lung cancer, and pancreatic cancer, where it contributes to the multidrug resistance (MDR) phenotype by actively pumping chemotherapeutic agents out of tumor cells [4]. Common substrates include methotrexate, etoposide, and teniposide [3][4]. Consequently, ABCC3 is considered a significant therapeutic target for overcoming drug resistance and a potential biomarker for predicting patient response to chemotherapy [4][14]. Its role in drug disposition also makes it a key factor in pharmacokinetic drug-drug interactions and safety profiles of anionic drugs [4][10].

Other names

Multidrug resistance-associated protein 3MRP3ATP-binding cassette sub-family C member 3CMOAT2MOAT-DMLP2ABC31EST90757

ATP-dependent efflux of organic anions and xenobiotics from the cytoplasm to the extracellular space or systemic circulation.