Proton-coupled amino acid transporter 1 (PAT1 (SLC36A1))

Proton-coupled amino acid transporters (PAT1/SLC36A1 and PAT2/SLC36A2) are integral membrane proteins responsible for symporting small neutral amino acids, such as glycine, alanine, and proline, with protons (H+) across cellular membranes. They are highly expressed in the luminal surface of the small intestine (PAT1) and also found in tissues such as brain, kidney, and lung (PAT2). These transporters display broad substrate specificity and low-affinity, high-capacity transport characteristics, making them attractive for prodrug strategies designed to enhance oral absorption and deliver therapeutic agents that mimic amino acid substrates. PATs have significant pharmacological relevance because their activity can influence the absorption and bioavailability of nutrients and drugs, particularly those that are amino acid-based or designed as prodrugs. Inhibition or competition at these transporters may affect drug-drug and nutrient-drug interactions in the gut.

Other names

hPAT1hPAT2SLC36A1SLC36A2proton-coupled amino acid symportersolute carrier family 36 member 1/2

Mediate drug absorption via H+ symport (proton-coupled drug/amino acid uptake across biological membranes) Drug molecules and prodrugs exploit transporter promiscuity for cellular uptake and improved bioavailability