L-type amino acid transporter 2 (LAT2) (LAT2)

L-type amino acid transporter 2 (LAT2), encoded by the SLC7A8 gene, is a sodium-independent neutral amino acid exchanger that plays a vital role in systemic amino acid homeostasis (UniProt P52569). It forms a heterodimeric complex with the glycoprotein CD98hc (SLC3A2) to facilitate the 1:1 exchange of large and small neutral amino acids across cell membranes (PMID: 10574970). LAT2 is predominantly expressed in the basolateral membranes of the renal proximal tubule and small intestine, where it contributes to the reabsorption and absorption of nutrients (PMID: 10610726). Additionally, it is essential for the maintenance of the inner ear and ocular lens, with genetic mutations in SLC7A8 being linked to age-related hearing loss and cataracts (PMID: 29355486, PMID: 31156463). In the context of oncology, LAT2 is upregulated in several malignancies, such as pancreatic cancer, where it supports the metabolic demands of rapidly proliferating cells (PMID: 30453997). While it serves as a potential target for cancer therapy and a vehicle for drug delivery, its widespread physiological distribution necessitates strategies to avoid systemic toxicity and sensory impairment (PMID: 18823292).

Other names

SLC7A8Solute carrier family 7 member 8Large neutral amino acids transporter small subunit 2LPI-PC1

Competitive inhibition of amino acid transport; Substrate-mediated transport (PMID: 18823292).