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Target intelligence / Profile preview
Sodium-coupled neutral amino acid symporter 2 (SLC38A2)
- Target
- SLC38A2
- Molecular classification
- Transporter, Sodium-dependent symporter, Solute carrier family
01
Overview
Sodium-coupled neutral amino acid symporter 2 (SLC38A2), also known as SNAT2 or ATA2, is a membrane transporter that mediates the uptake of small and medium neutral amino acids in a sodium-dependent manner. It belongs to the solute carrier family 38 and serves critical roles in cellular nutrition, volume regulation under hyperosmotic stress, and activation of the mTORC1 pathway. SLC38A2 is widely expressed across tissues and is involved in health and disease, including protecting kidney medullary cells from stress and supporting cancer cell metabolism via glutaminolysis. Recent research has identified selective inhibitors that block its function, highlighting its relevance as a therapeutic target for cancer and metabolic diseases.
- Other names
- SNAT2ATA2Solute carrier family 38 member 2
02
Mechanism of action
Inhibition of SLC38A2/SNAT2 reduces neutral amino acid uptake and net glutamine supply for glutaminolysis (especially relevant in cancer metabolism) Synergistic cytostatic effect when both amino acid and glucose uptake are blocked Modulation of cellular osmoprotective mechanisms via mTORC1 activation
03
Biological functions
Transport of neutral amino acids across the cell membraneRegulation of cellular osmolarityNutrient uptakeActivation of mTORC1 pathwayCell volume recovery under hyperosmotic stressCellular response to stress (e.g., arsenite, hyperosmolarity)
04
Disease associations
CancerType II diabetesKidney disease (osmoprotection in renal medulla)
05
Safety considerations
Potential impact on normal amino acid homeostasis and cell survival (since SLC38A2 is ubiquitously expressed and involved in fundamental nutrient uptake)Risk of disrupting cellular osmolarity and viability, especially in renal tissues
06
Interacting drugs
3-(N-methyl (4-methylphenyl)sulfonamido)-N-(2-trifluoromethylbenzyl)thiophene-2-carboxamide
1 more in the full profile.
07
Biomarkers
Inducible SLC38A2 expression/activation (potential marker in renal stress or cancer)Cellular amino acid levels (e.g., glutamine, betaine) as indirect functional biomarkers
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