Concentrative nucleoside transporter 2 (CNT2)

Concentrative nucleoside transporter 2 (CNT2), encoded by the SLC28A2 gene, is a sodium-dependent transporter that preferentially mediates the cellular uptake of purine nucleosides (such as adenosine and guanosine), though it can also transport uridine[1][4][7]. It plays a key role in regulating extracellular adenosine levels, impacting anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective signaling, as well as neuronal protection during metabolic stress[1]. CNT2 is primarily found on the apical membranes of polarized epithelial cells and contributes to the pharmacologic uptake of anticancer and antiviral nucleoside analogs, making it an important determinant of drug efficacy and toxicity[1][4]. The transporter has a typical structure of 13 transmembrane domains and operates with a 1:1 sodium:nucleoside transport stoichiometry[1][4]. Genetic polymorphisms in CNT2 may influence nucleoside drug disposition but generally display limited functional variation[1]. Alterations in CNT2 function or expression are implicated in cancer, cardiovascular, and possibly neurodegenerative disease, and its selectivity makes it a potential therapeutic target and a focus for drug delivery strategies[1][2][4][7].

Other names

SLC28A2Sodium/nucleoside cotransporter 2

Facilitates sodium-dependent cellular uptake of nucleosides and nucleoside analog drugs, thus enabling intracellular activation and pharmacologic activity. Determines tissue exposure and efficacy of nucleoside-based drugs