Large neutral amino acids transporter small subunit 1 (SLC7A5) (SLC7A5)

Large neutral amino acids transporter small subunit 1, commonly known as SLC7A5 or LAT1, is a sodium-independent amino acid exchanger that plays a critical role in cellular metabolism by transporting essential amino acids such as leucine, phenylalanine, and tyrosine into cells [1, 4]. It functions as a heterodimer covalently linked to the heavy chain glycoprotein CD98hc (SLC3A2), which is required for its translocation to the plasma membrane [1, 2]. SLC7A5 is significantly upregulated in a wide variety of human cancers, where it supports rapid cell growth and proliferation by maintaining a high supply of nutrients and activating the mTORC1 signaling pathway [2, 3]. Beyond oncology, it is a key component of the blood-brain barrier, facilitating the transport of thyroid hormones and various drugs, including levodopa and melphalan [1, 4]. Mutations in the SLC7A5 gene have been linked to neurodevelopmental disorders like autism due to the disruption of amino acid homeostasis in the brain [4]. Therapeutic targeting of SLC7A5 primarily involves small-molecule inhibitors like JPH203, which aim to starve tumor cells of essential nutrients, or utilizing the transporter for the targeted delivery of prodrugs [3].

Other names

LAT1L-type amino acid transporter 1CD98 light chain4F2 light chain4F2LCSolute carrier family 7 member 5E16Msh1

Competitive inhibition of large neutral amino acid transport, leading to intracellular nutrient depletion and subsequent inhibition of the mTORC1 signaling pathway.