Solute carrier family 7 member 14 (SLC7A14)

Solute carrier family 7 member 14 (SLC7A14) is a glycosylated, lysosomal membrane cationic amino acid transporter widely expressed in sensory tissues such as the retina and cochlea, as well as in hepatic tissue in states of insulin resistance. It facilitates the uptake of amino acids—especially arginine and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)—into lysosomes, impacting mTORC2 signaling, gluconeogenesis, and autophagy. Mutations in SLC7A14 lead to autosomal recessive retinitis pigmentosa and auditory neuropathy by disrupting sensory cell function and lysosomal integrity. Emerging research implicates SLC7A14 in metabolic disease via promotion of hepatic insulin resistance through lysosomal GABA accumulation. SLC7A14 is a candidate therapeutic and diagnostic target for rare sensory disorders and potentially for metabolic disease.

Other names

SLC7A14KIAA1613PPP1R142Gamma-aminobutyric acid transporter SLC7A14Protein phosphatase 1, regulatory subunit 142

Not established for approved drugs. Experimental inhibition of SLC7A14 is proposed as a therapeutic strategy for insulin resistance by preventing lysosomal GABA accumulation and restoring mTORC2 activity. Potential future mechanisms may include blockade or modulation of lysosomal cationic amino acid/GABA transport.