Large neutral amino acids transporter small subunit 3 (LAT3)

SLC43A1, encoding Large neutral amino acids transporter small subunit 3 (LAT3), is a sodium-independent membrane transporter responsible for the facilitated diffusion of large neutral amino acids—particularly leucine, isoleucine, valine, methionine, and phenylalanine—into cells[1][2][3][5]. LAT3 plays a crucial role in supplying essential amino acids required for mTORC1 pathway activation, which controls cell growth and protein synthesis[1]. Its expression is upregulated in various cancers, notably prostate cancer, where it is regulated by androgen receptor signaling and nutrient stress responses[1]. Elevated LAT3 promotes cancer cell proliferation, and experimental inhibition of LAT3 can suppress tumor growth by restricting amino acid availability[1]. LAT3 is found in multiple tissues, including pancreas, skin, muscle, liver, kidney podocytes, and prostate[1].

Other names

LAT3SLC43A1Large neutral amino acids transporter small subunit 3L-type amino acid transporter 3Prostate cancer overexpressed gene 1 proteinPOV1PB39R00504

Inhibitors block amino acid uptake, depriving cancer cells of essential nutrients for mTORC1-mediated protein synthesis, thereby suppressing cell growth and proliferation