Concentrative nucleoside transporter 2 (CNT2) (CNT2)

Concentrative nucleoside transporter 2 (CNT2), encoded by the SLC28A2 gene, is a sodium-coupled symporter primarily responsible for the high-affinity uptake of purine nucleosides, particularly adenosine, from the extracellular environment. Unlike equilibrative transporters, CNT2 utilizes the sodium gradient to concentrate substrates within the cell, playing a critical role in nucleoside salvage and the regulation of extracellular adenosine concentrations. This regulation directly influences purinergic signaling and cellular energy homeostasis, notably through the activation of the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway. In a therapeutic context, CNT2 is a significant target for the delivery of nucleoside-derived drugs, such as antiviral and anticancer agents, and its expression levels often serve as biomarkers for drug efficacy. Furthermore, its role in modulating adenosine levels makes it a potential target for treating inflammatory and metabolic disorders, where adenosine acts as a key signaling molecule. Its broad expression in tissues like the liver, intestine, and brain underscores its importance in systemic purine metabolism and its potential as a site for drug-drug interactions.

Other names

High-affinity adenosine transporterSodium/nucleoside cotransporter 2SLC28A2Purine-selective nucleoside transporterSPNT

Sodium-coupled active transport of nucleosides